A nurse on an inpatient unit is caring for a client who has somatic symptom disorder. The client comes to the nurse's station and reports chest pain. The nurse knows this is a new symptom for the client. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Encourage the client to use relaxation techniques.

Reassure the client that pain is an expected part of their disorder.

Explain to the client that the pain is not real.

Assess the client's vital signs.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

A. Encourage the client to use relaxation techniques. While relaxation techniques can help manage symptoms in somatic symptom disorder, they should not be the first response to a new symptom like chest pain. The nurse must first rule out a medical cause before assuming the pain is psychological.
B. Reassure the client that pain is an expected part of their disorder. Assuming that the pain is purely psychosomatic without assessing for a potential medical emergency could lead to a delay in necessary treatment. Each new symptom should be evaluated independently.
C. Explain to the client that the pain is not real. The pain experienced by clients with somatic symptom disorder is real to them, even if a physical cause is not found. Dismissing their symptoms can damage trust and discourage them from reporting future concerns.
D. Assess the client's vital signs. Any new report of chest pain should be taken seriously, regardless of the client’s psychiatric history. Assessing vital signs ensures that a potential cardiac event or other medical issue is not overlooked before considering psychological factors.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. Diagnosis typically occurs after 40 years of age. This statement is inaccurate; schizophrenia most commonly manifests in late adolescence to early adulthood, typically between the ages of 18 and 30.
B. The need for resources increases as the disease progresses into adulthood. As schizophrenia progresses, individuals often require additional support and resources, including therapy, medication management, and community services, to manage symptoms and improve functioning.
C. Co-occurring mental health illnesses are rarely diagnosed. This statement is not accurate; individuals with schizophrenia often have co-occurring mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, or substance use disorders, which can complicate treatment and management.
D. Life expectancy is greater than the general population. This statement is incorrect; individuals with schizophrenia generally have a reduced life expectancy compared to the general population, often due to factors such as higher rates of comorbid conditions, lifestyle factors, and suicide risk.

A. "I'm going to ignore your lack of self-care because it is an aspect of the disorder." B. "Do you really think it is ok not to bathe? What is going on with you?" C. "It is now time for you to bathe. Do you want to wear the red or green shirt?" D. "This is it! You are getting a bath! There are three of us here to bathe you!"

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. "I'm going to ignore your lack of self-care because it is an aspect of the disorder." Ignoring the client’s hygiene neglect does not support their well-being or promote self-care. While poor self-care is a symptom of schizophrenia, the nurse should encourage hygiene rather than dismiss it.
B. "Do you really think it is ok not to bathe? What is going on with you?" This confrontational statement may make the client feel judged or defensive, potentially worsening their resistance to self-care. Clients with schizophrenia may have impaired insight and motivation, making supportive guidance more effective.
C. "It is now time for you to bathe. Do you want to wear the red or green shirt?" Providing a structured directive while offering a simple choice promotes autonomy and encourages adherence to hygiene. Clients with schizophrenia benefit from clear instructions and limited choices, reducing decision-making stress and increasing cooperation.
D. "This is it! You are getting a bath! There are three of us here to bathe you!" Using forceful or coercive language can cause distress and escalate resistance. Encouraging hygiene should be done through therapeutic communication and gentle prompts rather than threats or intimidation.

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A nurse on an inpatient unit is caring for a client who has somatic symptom disorder. The client comes to the nurse's station and reports chest pain. The nurse knows this is a new symptom for the client. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

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A nurse is assisting in teaching a client who has been newly diagnosed with schizophrenia. Which of the following information should the nurse include?

Correct Answer is B

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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A nurse on an inpatient unit is caring for a client who has somatic symptom disorder. The client comes to the nurse's station and reports chest pain. The nurse knows this is a new symptom for the client. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

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