ATI Mental Health Practice B Related

Review ATI Mental Health Practice B related questions and content

A client is diagnosed with somatic symptom disorder. Which of the following behaviors should the nurse expect?

  • A. Excessive worry about physical symptoms
  • B. Fear of gaining weight
  • C. Frequent visits to healthcare providers
  • D. Persistent depressive mood
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Individuals with somatic symptom disorder often exhibit frequent visits to healthcare providers due to their excessive worry about physical symptoms. They seek reassurance and explanations for their perceived medical issues, even when there is no organic basis for their complaints. This behavior is a characteristic feature of somatic symptom disorder and distinguishes it from other conditions. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Excessive worry about physical symptoms may occur but it is not the primary behavior associated with this disorder. Fear of gaining weight is more characteristic of eating disorders, and persistent depressive mood is more indicative of mood disorders rather than somatic symptom disorder.