A nurse is conducting an assessment of a client with suspected somatic symptom illness. Which aspect should the nurse consider as part of the assessment process?

Choice A rationale:

The client's ability to perfectly articulate their emotions, while important, is not the primary focus of the assessment for somatic symptom illness. The emphasis is on identifying potential physical causes and addressing underlying emotional factors.

Choice B rationale:

Reviewing the client's social media posts for symptom updates might not yield reliable or comprehensive information regarding their condition. It's more appropriate to gather information through direct communication and medical assessment.

Choice C rationale:

A thorough medical history to rule out organic causes is a crucial aspect of the assessment process. It helps determine whether the client's symptoms are linked to any underlying medical conditions that require medical intervention.

Choice D rationale:

Exploring the client's childhood hobbies and interests may not directly contribute to the assessment of somatic symptom illness. While understanding the client's background is important, focusing on medical and psychological aspects is more relevant in this context.

Choice A rationale:

"Conversion disorder.". Choice A is not the correct answer. Conversion disorder involves the development of physical symptoms, such as motor or sensory deficits, that suggest a neurological or medical condition but are actually caused by psychological factors. It does not involve intentional production or falsification of symptoms for attention.

Choice B rationale:

"Illness anxiety disorder.". Choice B is not the correct answer. Illness anxiety disorder is characterized by excessive worry and fear of having a serious illness, even in the absence of medical evidence. It does not involve intentional fabrication of symptoms for attention.

Choice C rationale:

"Factitious disorder.". Choice C is the correct answer. Factitious disorder is characterized by intentionally producing or falsifying physical or psychological symptoms to assume the role of a sick person. The primary motivation is to receive attention, care, and sympathy from medical professionals or others. This behavior is driven by psychological factors rather than genuine medical need.

Choice D rationale:

"Somatic symptom disorder.". Choice D is not the correct answer. Somatic symptom disorder involves experiencing distressing physical symptoms that interfere with daily life. While the symptoms are real and genuinely felt, the central issue in somatic symptom disorder is the excessive response to these symptoms and the preoccupation with health concerns. It is not primarily about intentionally falsifying symptoms for attention.