A client presents with symptoms consistent with factitious disorder. Which of the following hypotheses should the nurse prioritize in the care of this client? (Select all that apply)
The client is seeking sympathy and pity from healthcare providers by feigning illness or injury.
The client is seeking attention and validation through inducing injury or illness.
The client's symptoms are the result of a misdiagnosis or medical error.
The client is seeking financial gain through feigning illness or injury.
The client is experiencing physical symptoms related to an underlying medical condition.
Correct Answer : A,B
Choice A reason:
This hypothesis aligns with the typical motivations seen in factitious disorder, where individuals intentionally produce or exaggerate symptoms of illness in themselves to receive attention, sympathy, and care from medical personnel¹. The nurse should prioritize understanding this behavior to manage the client's care effectively and to avoid unnecessary medical interventions.
Choice B reason:
Similar to choice A, individuals with factitious disorder may induce injury or illness to fulfill a psychological need for attention and validation. Recognizing this motivation is crucial for the nurse to provide appropriate psychological support and to prevent further self-harm.
Choice C reason:
While misdiagnosis or medical error can occur, this is not typically a hypothesis that should be prioritized in the care of a client with factitious disorder. The disorder involves intentional actions by the client, not errors by healthcare providers.
Choice D reason:
Seeking financial gain is more characteristic of malingering than factitious disorder. In factitious disorder, the primary motivation is psychological gratification from playing the patient role, rather than external incentives like financial gain.
Choice E reason:
Factitious disorder involves the intentional production of symptoms without an underlying medical condition. Therefore, this hypothesis would not be a priority in the care of a client with factitious disorder, as the symptoms are not related to a genuine medical condition but are self-induced.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Aspirin is not used to reverse the effects of opioids. It is an anti-inflammatory drug that can reduce pain and fever, but it does not have the capability to counteract opioid effects.
Choice B reason: Acetaminophen, also known as Tylenol, is a pain reliever and a fever reducer. It does not have the properties to reverse opioid overdoses and is not an antidote for opioids.
Choice C reason: Naloxone is the correct medication to reverse the effects of opioids. It is an opioid antagonist that can quickly restore normal breathing in a person if their breathing has slowed or stopped because of an opioid overdose. Naloxone binds to opioid receptors and can reverse and block the effects of other opioids.
Choice D reason: Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat pain, fever, and inflammation. Like aspirin and acetaminophen, it does not reverse the effects of an opioid overdose.
In conclusion, naloxone is the medication that is used to reverse the effects of opioids in the case of an overdose. It is a critical drug in emergency situations involving opioids and can save lives by reversing life-threatening respiratory depression caused by opioid overdose. Healthcare providers should be prepared to administer naloxone and provide appropriate follow-up care after its use.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
In a situation where a client has ingested a potentially lethal amount of medication, immediate medical intervention is crucial. Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant, and overdose can lead to life-threatening conditions such as cardiac arrhythmias, severe hypotension, and seizures. The nurse's priority is to ensure the safety of the client by sending an ambulance. This response also acknowledges the client's cry for help and initiates prompt action.
Choice B Reason:
While it's important to recognize the emotional state of the client, this response does not address the immediate medical emergency. The client's safety is the priority, and while their feelings are valid, this choice does not facilitate the urgent care needed.
Choice C Reason:
Asking if the client was trying to commit suicide can come across as judgmental and may close off communication. It's essential to maintain an open line of communication and focus on getting medical help rather than determining intent at this critical moment.
Choice D Reason:
Knowing the quantity of medication ingested can be useful information for medical professionals; however, it is not the most immediate concern in a crisis situation. The first response should be to ensure that medical help is on its way.
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