A nurse is caring for a client who was recently diagnosed with somatic symptom disorder.
The client says to the nurse, "I don't understand, they can't find anything medically wrong with me. I guess I will never feel better.”. Which of the following responses is the most therapeutic?
"Why do you feel like you will never get better? Do you not have confidence in the medical team?".
"We will work with you to help you develop ways to manage your symptoms that are caused by the disorder.”.
"Let's focus on the physical symptoms that you have.”.
"Although there isn't a cure for this disorder, I am sure you will feel better someday.”.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
Asking why the client feels they will never get better might come across as dismissive or confrontational.
Choice B rationale:
This response acknowledges the client’s feelings and offers a supportive approach to managing the symptoms of somatic symptom disorder. This disorder is characterized by a significant focus on physical symptoms that cause major distress and/or problems functioning. The main treatment is psychotherapy, and medication might be given in some cases.
Choice C rationale:
Focusing only on the physical symptoms might not address the emotional distress that the client is experiencing.
Choice D rationale:
While it’s important to offer hope, this response might come across as dismissive of the client’s current feelings.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Flooding therapy is not typically used for somatic symptom disorder.
Choice B rationale:
Telling a client that their pain is not real can invalidate their experience and is not a recommended approach for somatic symptom disorder.
Choice C rationale:
Providing reassurance to the client is a recommended approach when all tests are normal and there are no identified risk factors.
Choice D rationale:
Encouraging the client to request invasive cardiac testing is not typically recommended when all tests are normal and there are no identified risk factors.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
While educating the client about policies upon admission to the unit is important, it may not have the greatest impact on both the management of care and on milieu environment.
Choice B rationale:
Instructing the client that intrusive behaviors are not appropriate is important, but it may not have the greatest impact on both the management of care and on milieu environment.
Choice C rationale:
Ensuring that the client’s medication therapy is administered in a timely manner is crucial, but it may not have the greatest impact on both the management of care and on milieu environment.
Choice D rationale:
Setting and maintaining consistent unit policies that are enforced by all staff can create a stable and predictable environment, which can have a significant impact on both the management of care and on milieu environment.
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