A nurse is educating a client about the concept of psychotherapy as a treatment option for somatic symptom illnesses. Which type of psychotherapy focuses on challenging and changing negative thoughts and beliefs that contribute to symptoms?
Psychodynamic therapy.
Family therapy.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy.
Interpersonal therapy.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
Psychodynamic therapy - Psychodynamic therapy focuses on exploring unconscious conflicts and childhood experiences to understand and address current psychological issues. While it can be beneficial for various mental health concerns, it may not be the primary approach for challenging and changing negative thoughts and beliefs that contribute to somatic symptom illnesses.
Choice B rationale:
Family therapy - Family therapy involves addressing family dynamics and interactions to improve overall family functioning. While family support is important, family therapy might not be the primary approach to directly address the negative thoughts and beliefs contributing to somatic symptoms.
Choice C rationale:
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) - This is the correct answer. CBT is well-known for its effectiveness in treating somatic symptom illnesses. It targets negative thought patterns and beliefs that contribute to physical symptoms. By challenging these thoughts and promoting healthier beliefs, clients can experience a reduction in somatic symptoms and improved overall functioning.
Choice D rationale:
Interpersonal therapy - Interpersonal therapy focuses on improving interpersonal relationships and communication. While these skills are valuable, this type of therapy might not be the primary choice for directly addressing the cognitive aspect of somatic symptom illnesses.
|
Disorder |
Definition |
Symptoms |
Causes |
Treatment |
|
Somatic symptom disorder |
A condition in which a person has physical symptoms that cause significant distress or impairment, but are not fully explained by a medical condition. |
Pain, fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, etc. The person may also have excessive worry, anxiety, or depression about the symptoms. |
The exact cause is unknown, but it may be related to genetic, biological, psychological, and social factors. Stress and trauma may trigger or worsen the symptoms. |
Psychotherapy, medication, and self-care strategies to cope with the symptoms and reduce stress. |
|
Factitious disorder |
A condition in which a person deliberately produces, feigns, or exaggerates symptoms of an illness or injury, without a clear motive or benefit. |
The person may have various symptoms that mimic a medical condition, such as fever, bleeding, seizures, etc. The person may also tamper with tests, injure themselves, or take substances to induce symptoms. |
The exact cause is unknown, but it may be related to psychological factors such as low self-esteem, childhood abuse or neglect, personality disorders, or emotional trauma. The person may seek attention, care, or sympathy from others. |
Psychotherapy, medication, and family or group therapy to address the underlying issues and improve self-esteem and coping skills. |
|
Conversion disorder |
A condition in which a person has neurological symptoms that are not explained by a neurological disease or another medical condition. |
The person may have weakness, paralysis, tremors, seizures, numbness, vision or hearing problems, speech difficulties, etc. The symptoms may vary in severity and duration. |
The exact cause is unknown, but it may be related to how the brain functions rather than its structure. The condition may be triggered by a neurological disorder or by stress or psychological trauma. |
Psychotherapy, medication, physical therapy, and hypnosis to relieve the symptoms and manage the stress or trauma. |
|
Illness anxiety disorder |
A condition in which a person has excessive fear or worry that they have or will develop a serious illness, despite having few or no symptoms. |
The person may have mild or normal body sensations that they interpret as signs of a serious disease. The person may also seek frequent medical reassurance or avoid medical care for fear of being diagnosed. The person may also search the internet for information about diseases or symptoms. |
The exact cause is unknown, but it may be related to genetic, biological, psychological, and environmental factors. Anxiety disorders, depression, childhood illness or abuse, or stressful life events may increase the risk. |
Psychotherapy, medication, and self-help strategies to challenge the negative thoughts and reduce anxiety. |
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
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.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Discouraging the client from seeking professional help would be detrimental to their well-being. Somatic symptom illness often requires a multidisciplinary approach, involving both medical and psychological interventions. Encouraging professional help-seeking is essential for effective management.
Choice B rationale:
Promoting passive-aggressive behavior as a coping strategy is not appropriate. Passive-aggressive behavior can hinder effective communication and exacerbate the client's distress. Encouraging healthy coping mechanisms and addressing the underlying psychological factors is a more beneficial approach.
Choice C rationale:
Educating the client about the role of psychological factors is crucial because somatic symptom illness often has psychological components. Helping the client understand the mind-body connection can empower them to recognize how emotional stressors can manifest as physical symptoms. This knowledge can aid the client in managing their condition more effectively.
Choice D rationale:
Advising the client to continue avoiding physical activities is not recommended. Encouraging physical activity within the client's capabilities can have positive effects on their overall well-being. Avoidance of physical activities might lead to deconditioning and worsen the client's physical and emotional state.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.