A client has the following symptoms: preoccupation with imagined defect, verbalizations that are out of proportion to actual physical abnormalities, and numerous visits to plastic surgeons to seek relief. Which nursing diagnosis would best describe the problems evidenced by these symptoms?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The symptoms described in the client, such as preoccupation with imagined defect, verbalizations out of proportion to actual physical abnormalities, and numerous visits to plastic surgeons, are indicative of a disturbed body image. The client's perception of their physical appearance is distorted, leading to a preoccupation with perceived flaws and seeking multiple interventions to alleviate this distress. The nursing diagnosis of Disturbed body image is appropriate in this case as it reflects the client's altered self-perception and negative feelings related to their physical appearance. Ineffective coping, complicated grieving, and panic anxiety may also be present but are not the primary concern based on the symptoms provided.

Correct Answer:

Rationale: In the context of planning care for a client diagnosed with somatic symptom disorder, the appropriate outcomes would focus on addressing the client's physical symptoms and the underlying psychological distress causing them. It would not be appropriate to set a goal for the client to admit to fabricating symptoms, as this could be counterproductive and may not align with therapeutic goals for managing the symptoms and improving overall well-being. Instead, goals may involve helping the client understand and manage their symptoms, improving coping strategies, addressing underlying psychological factors contributing to the symptoms, and promoting overall mental health and quality of life.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The primary goal of therapy for a client diagnosed with Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) is to collaborate among the subpersonalities to improve functioning. DID involves the presence of two or more distinct identities or personality states within an individual. These subpersonalities may have different behaviors, thoughts, and emotions. Therapy aims to facilitate communication and cooperation among these identities, helping the individual to integrate them into a harmonious whole. By fostering collaboration among the subpersonalities, therapy can reduce internal conflicts, improve overall functioning, and promote a sense of cohesion and wholeness. This approach is essential for individuals with DID to achieve greater stability and a sense of identity.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the context of illness anxiety disorder, the correct symptom that the client is most likely to exhibit is obsessive-compulsive traits (Option A). This is because individuals with illness anxiety disorder often display excessive worry or preoccupation with the possibility of having a serious illness. These individuals may engage in compulsive behaviors such as frequent checking of their bodies for signs of illness or seeking reassurance from healthcare providers. Option B, pseudocyesis, is not typically associated with illness anxiety disorder. Pseudocyesis refers to a false belief of being pregnant and exhibiting physical symptoms of pregnancy despite not actually being pregnant. Option C, a disabling fear of having a serious illness, is a characteristic feature of illness anxiety disorder. However, this symptom is more general and does not specifically differentiate illness anxiety disorder from other conditions. Option D, multiple pronounced physical symptoms, may be present in illness anxiety disorder, but the key distinguishing feature lies in the excessive preoccupation and fear of having a serious illness rather than the sheer number of physical symptoms. Educationally, understanding the specific symptoms and diagnostic criteria of mental health disorders like illness anxiety disorder is crucial for healthcare professionals in accurately assessing and providing appropriate care for individuals experiencing these conditions. By differentiating between symptoms like obsessive-compulsive traits and other physical manifestations, practitioners can offer targeted interventions to support individuals with illness anxiety disorder effectively.