Somatoform Disorder

Question 1

Conversion disorder

Answer 1

Sudden onset of a physical symptom or a deficit suggesting loss of or altered body function related to a psychological conflict or a neurological disorder
Expression of a psychological conflict or need / no organic cause
Most common are blindness, deafness, paralysis, inability to talk.
Ss beyond the conscious control
Development of physical symptoms reduces anxiety

Question 2

Conversion disorder

Assessment

Answer 2

Rule out a physiological cause for symptoms/ deficits
“La belle indifference” unconcerned with the symptoms
Physical limitation/ disability
Guilt/anxiety/frustration
Low self esteem / inadequacy
Unexpressed anger/conflict
Secondary gain

Question 3

Hypochondrias

Answer 3

Preoccupation with fears of having a serious disease
No evidence of physical illness exists
Significantly impair social and occupational functionings

Question 4

Hypochondriasis

Answer 4

Preoccupation with physical functioning
Frequent somatic complains
Complains of fatigue/ insomnia
Anxiety
Difficult expressing feelings
Extensive use of home remedies/ non prescription meds
Repeatedly visiting a health care provider despite repeated assurance and normal test results
Secondary gain

Question 5

Somatization disorder

Answer 5

Multiple physical complains involving numerous body systems

Cause is presumed to be psychological

Question 6

Somatoform disorders

Answer 6

Characterized by persistent worry/ complains regarding physical illness without supportive physical findings
-Focus on physical s/s and is unable to control
-physical signs and symptoms increases with psychosocial stressors
Anxiety is redirected to a somatic concern
Unconsciously use somatization for secondary gains, ex: attention, less responsibility

Question 7

Somatization disorder

Assessment

Answer 7

Physical complains of pain, denial of emotional problems, signs of anxiety, fear, low self esteem

Question 8

Somatization disorder

Answer 8

Intervention: obtain a nursing history and assess for physical problems
Explore the needs being met by the physical symptoms with the client
Alternate way for meeting needs
Relat feelings/ conflicts to physical symptoms. Assure physical illness ruled out. Explore/ verbalize anxiety, relax techniques, positive feedback, limited behavior rather than stop completely