(Select all that apply):. A nurse is discussing various goals that can be set for the treatment of somatic symptom illnesses. Which of the following are realistic and measurable goals that a client might aim for? Select all that apply.
Complete elimination of all physical symptoms.
Reduction in the frequency and intensity of physical symptoms.
Improvement in mood and self-esteem.
Ability to manage stress and cope with symptoms effectively.
Developing a dislike for medical appointments.
Correct Answer : B,C,D
Choice A rationale:
Complete elimination of all physical symptoms - This choice might not be a realistic and achievable goal for clients with somatic symptom illnesses. These conditions often involve complex factors and underlying psychological issues that might not allow for the complete elimination of physical symptoms. Furthermore, the mind-body connection in these cases can make it challenging to solely focus on the physical aspect.
Choice B rationale:
Reduction in the frequency and intensity of physical symptoms - This is a realistic and measurable goal for clients with somatic symptom illnesses. Many of these illnesses involve somatization, where emotional distress is manifested as physical symptoms. By working towards reducing the frequency and intensity of these symptoms, clients can experience improved quality of life and functioning.
Choice C rationale:
Improvement in mood and self-esteem - This is a valid goal for clients with somatic symptom illnesses. These conditions often coexist with mood disorders and low self-esteem. Addressing these psychological aspects can lead to better overall well-being and a reduction in the somatic symptoms. Additionally, improved mood and self-esteem can contribute to a client's ability to cope effectively with their symptoms.
Choice D rationale:
Ability to manage stress and cope with symptoms effectively - This is an essential goal for clients with somatic symptom illnesses. Stress can exacerbate physical symptoms and create a cycle of distress. Teaching clients effective stress management and coping strategies can empower them to handle their symptoms in a healthier way, which can ultimately lead to an improvement in their overall condition.
Choice E rationale:
Developing a dislike for medical appointments - This is not a realistic or relevant goal for the treatment of somatic symptom illnesses. Medical appointments are necessary for proper assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of these conditions. Encouraging a dislike for medical appointments could hinder the client's progress and adherence to treatment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Complete recovery is a possible outcome for some individuals with somatic symptom illnesses, where they no longer meet the diagnostic criteria for the illness. With appropriate treatment and interventions, individuals can experience improvements in their symptoms and overall functioning.
Choice B rationale:
While symptoms can vary, stating that symptoms will worsen over time, leading to severe impairment in functioning (Choice B) is not accurate for the majority of cases of somatic symptom illnesses. Most individuals can experience improvement with proper management and treatment.
Choice C rationale:
Complete disappearance of symptoms after a single round of medication (Choice C) is unlikely for most somatic symptom illnesses. These conditions often have complex underlying factors that require a multidimensional approach for effective management.
Choice D rationale:
While mood improvement is possible with treatment, stating that the physical symptoms will remain unchanged (Choice D) is overly pessimistic. Treatment approaches aim to address both physical and psychological aspects of somatic symptom illnesses.
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.
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