A patient diagnosed with somatic symptom disorder says, "I have pain from an undiagnosed injury. I can't take care of myself. I need pain medicine six or seven times a day. I feel like a baby because my family has to help me so much." It is important for the nurse to assess:
A) mood.
B) cognitive style.
C) secondary gains.
D) identity and memory.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Secondary gains should be assessed. The patient's dependency needs may be met through care from the family. When secondary gains are prominent, the patient is more resistant to giving up the symptom. The scenario does not allude to a problem of mood. Cognitive style and identity and memory assessment are of lesser concern because the patient's diagnosis has been established.

A Patient Diagnosed with Somatic Symptom Disorder Says, "I Have