A nurse is caring for a group of clients with somatic symptom illnesses. Select all the types of somatic symptom illnesses from the following options.
Conversion disorder.
Unspecified somatic symptom and related disorder.
Illness anxiety disorder.
Chronic medical condition disorder.
Somatic symptom disorder.
Correct Answer : A,C,E
Choice A rationale:
Conversion disorder. Conversion disorder involves the presence of neurological symptoms, such as paralysis, blindness, or seizures, that cannot be explained by a medical condition. These symptoms typically reflect an unconscious psychological conflict or need. The nurse should be familiar with this disorder as it falls within the category of somatic symptom illnesses.
Choice B rationale:
Unspecified somatic symptom and related disorder. Unspecified somatic symptom and related disorder is not a specific recognized disorder. This choice does not accurately describe a type of somatic symptom illness.
Choice C rationale:
Illness anxiety disorder. Illness anxiety disorder, formerly known as hypochondriasis, involves excessive worry and fear of having a serious illness despite minimal or no medical evidence. Individuals with this disorder often misinterpret bodily sensations as signs of a severe illness. The focus is on the fear of having an illness rather than intentional symptom production.
Choice D rationale:
Chronic medical condition disorder. Chronic medical condition disorder is not a recognized disorder within the somatic symptom illness category. This choice is not accurate in describing a type of somatic symptom illness.
Choice E rationale:
Somatic symptom disorder. Somatic symptom disorder involves distressing and disruptive physical symptoms that may or may not have an identifiable medical cause. The key characteristic is the disproportionate and excessive focus on the symptoms themselves, leading to impaired functioning. This disorder can include intentional symptom production but is not solely defined by it.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Encouraging the client to ignore their physical symptoms would not be an appropriate intervention. Somatic symptom illness involves genuine distress and discomfort, and disregarding the symptoms might lead to increased frustration and anxiety.
Choice B rationale:
Explaining that the symptoms are purely psychological oversimplifies the situation. While psychological factors do play a role in somatic symptom illness, the symptoms are not purely imaginary. Validating the client's experiences while addressing underlying emotional factors is a more comprehensive approach.
Choice C rationale:
Assisting the client to express their emotions and thoughts is a suitable intervention. Somatic symptom illness often arises from unaddressed emotional distress. By encouraging the client to discuss their feelings, the nurse provides a safe space for emotional expression and can help identify contributing factors.
Choice D rationale:
Providing excessive attention and sympathy to the client might inadvertently reinforce their focus on physical symptoms rather than addressing the underlying emotional issues. This approach could potentially contribute to the maintenance of somatic symptom illness.
Correct Answer is ["A","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Problem-solving is an effective coping strategy for individuals with somatic symptom illness. Encouraging the client to identify and address the underlying issues contributing to their symptoms helps them gain a sense of control and reduces distress. By analyzing problems and generating possible solutions, the client can develop healthier ways to manage their symptoms.
Choice B rationale:
Denial of emotions is not a recommended coping strategy for somatic symptom illness. Denying emotions can lead to avoidance of underlying issues and exacerbate psychological distress. Encouraging clients to acknowledge and express their emotions is more beneficial for their overall well-being.
Choice C rationale:
Escaping from unpleasant situations is not a healthy coping strategy for somatic symptom illness. Avoidance of situations can reinforce avoidance behaviors and hinder the client's progress. It's important to promote facing challenges and developing adaptive coping mechanisms.
Choice D rationale:
Seeking social support is a valuable coping strategy for individuals with somatic symptom illness. Connecting with others and receiving empathy and understanding can help alleviate feelings of isolation and provide the client with a support system. Social support encourages positive emotional expression and sharing of experiences.
Choice E rationale:
Repressing emotions is not a recommended coping strategy for somatic symptom illness. Repression can lead to increased stress and potentially worsen physical symptoms. Encouraging emotional awareness and expression is more beneficial for the client's psychological well-being.
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