What psychological mechanism might be at play in a patient with conversion disorder presenting with sudden blindness without any physiological basis?
Malingering
Primary gain
Secondary gain
La Belle Indifference
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Malingering is defined by the conscious and intentional production of false or grossly exaggerated physical or psychological symptoms. In contrast, conversion disorder involves symptoms that are not under voluntary control and are driven by unconscious psychological conflicts, making malingering an incorrect classification for this involuntary process.
Choice B reason: Primary gain is the internal psychological benefit derived from a physical symptom, specifically the reduction of anxiety by keeping an internal conflict out of conscious awareness. In conversion disorder, the physical symptom (like blindness) serves to "solve" a psychic conflict, allowing the patient to avoid the distress of the underlying emotional issue.
Choice C reason: Secondary gain refers to the tangible external benefits a patient receives as a result of their symptoms, such as being excused from difficult duties or receiving sympathy. While secondary gain often reinforces conversion symptoms, it is not the primary psychological mechanism that generates the initial "conversion" of anxiety into a physical deficit.
Choice D reason: La belle indifference is a descriptive clinical feature—the lack of concern about the symptom—rather than the underlying psychological mechanism itself. It is a symptom of the disorder, whereas primary gain explains "why" the symptom was created by the subconscious mind to manage internal emotional pressure.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Hypersensitivity reactions and contact dermatitis are significant risks associated with the use of essential oils in clinical settings. Before initiating aromatherapy, the nurse must assess the patient for a history of allergies or atopy. Essential oils contain volatile organic compounds that can trigger bronchospasm or anaphylaxis in susceptible individuals.
Choice B reason: Mixing essential oils with water only is an ineffective method of dilution because oils are hydrophobic and do not dissolve in water. This lack of solubility can lead to uneven distribution, where concentrated droplets of oil come into direct contact with the patient's skin or mucous membranes, potentially causing irritation or chemical burns.
Choice C reason: Utilizing high concentrations of essential oils is contraindicated as it increases the risk of systemic toxicity and localized skin irritation. Therapeutic effectiveness in aromatherapy does not follow a linear dose-response curve where more is better; instead, high concentrations can overwhelm the patient's sensory system and cause adverse physiological responses.
Choice D reason: Applying undiluted essential oils directly to the skin, known as "neat" application, is hazardous and bypasses essential safety testing. Standard nursing practice requires a patch test on a small area of skin to monitor for adverse reactions before broad application, especially in patients with compromised skin integrity or heightened sensitivities.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Complementary medicine refers to non-mainstream practices used together with conventional medical treatments. This integrated approach aims to treat the whole person, addressing physical, emotional, and spiritual needs while adhering to standard-of-care protocols established by the biomedical community to ensure patient safety and efficacy.
Choice B reason: The statement that complementary medicine replaces conventional treatments is inaccurate. When a non-mainstream practice is used in place of conventional medicine, it is specifically defined as alternative medicine. Confusing these terms can lead to patient safety risks if standard medical treatments for serious conditions are inappropriately abandoned.
Choice C reason: Alternative medicine is a broad category that includes various systems and practices, such as acupuncture, homeopathy, and energy healing, not just herbal treatments. Restricting the definition to herbs ignores the diverse range of manual therapies, cognitive interventions, and traditional healing systems that fall under the alternative medicine umbrella.
Choice D reason: This statement incorrectly describes alternative medicine. By definition, alternative medicine is used instead of conventional medicine. The practice of using non-mainstream approaches in coordination with conventional medicine to enhance effects or manage symptoms is more accurately described as integrative or complementary medicine.
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.