Which of the following actions should the nurse take first when performing an assessment on a client who reports being sexually assaulted?

Choice A reason:

A history of prior physical health issues and surgeries may contribute to health-related anxieties, but they are not specific findings expected in illness anxiety disorder. This disorder is characterized by excessive worry about having a serious illness, not necessarily a history of actual health problems.

Choice B reason:

Sudden unexplained loss of peripheral sensation could be a symptom of a neurological condition and is not a typical finding in illness anxiety disorder. Individuals with this disorder are preoccupied with the idea of being ill rather than experiencing unexplained physical symptoms.

Choice C reason:

An obsession over a fictitious defect in physical appearance is more indicative of body dysmorphic disorder rather than illness anxiety disorder. While both disorders involve preoccupation with health and appearance, illness anxiety disorder focuses on the fear of having a serious illness.

Choice D reason:

Continuous worry about the undiagnosed presence of an illness is a central feature of illness anxiety disorder. Individuals with this disorder are excessively concerned about the possibility of having a serious, undiagnosed medical condition despite lack of or minimal somatic symptoms

Choice A Reason:

The statement "Your provider has explained the causes of schizophrenia. Why do you feel guilty about your daughter's diagnosis?" is not the most appropriate response. While it acknowledges the parents' feelings, it can come across as dismissive and may make the parents feel defensive. It does not provide a supportive environment for them to express their emotions and concerns.

Choice B Reason:

The statement "You said that you feel guilty about your daughter's diagnosis. Let's talk about what is causing you to feel this way." is the most appropriate response. It acknowledges the parents' feelings and invites them to share their thoughts and emotions. This approach fosters open communication and provides an opportunity for the nurse to offer support and reassurance. It helps the parents feel heard and understood, which is crucial in addressing their feelings of guilt.

Choice C Reason:

The statement "You should not feel guilty about your daughter's diagnosis. Schizophrenia is unpreventable." is factual but not therapeutic. It dismisses the parents' feelings of guilt without addressing the underlying emotions. While it is important to provide accurate information, it is equally important to validate the parents' feelings and offer emotional support.

Choice D Reason:

The statement "I'm sure your daughter's diagnosis is very difficult to deal with, but everything will be all right once she receives the proper treatment." is well-intentioned but overly reassuring. It may come across as minimizing the parents' concerns and does not provide an opportunity for them to express their feelings. It is important to balance reassurance with empathy and active listening.