A client diagnosed with somatic symptom disorder (SSD) is reporting significant pain in the joints. When providing care to this client, which factor would be most important for a nurse to keep in mind?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Even though there is no medical explanation for the pain, the client's pain is real and has serious psychosocial implications. Aggressive pharmacologic treatment of the symptoms must be avoided. Nonpharmacologic strategies, including complementary and alternative treatments, should be used to assist in pain relief. Outcomes developed need to avoid focusing on the biologic aspects of the disorder and instead help the client overcome the pain through biopsychosocial approaches.

A Client Diagnosed with Somatic Symptom Disorder (SSD) Is Reporting