Central Institute of Psychiatry - 9 July 2022
Mental Health Nursing (E5)
Easy

Which is the Somatoform disorder?

Appeared in: Central Institute of Psychiatry - 9 July 2022

Explanation

  • The question asks to identify a Somatoform disorder from the given options.
  • Hypochondriasis, Conversion disorder, and Pain disorder are all classic examples of disorders that were categorized under Somatoform Disorders in the DSM-IV.
  • Because all three individual options are correct examples, the most comprehensive and accurate answer is 'All of above'.
  • In the newer DSM-5 classification, these conditions are now part of the 'Somatic Symptom and Related Disorders' category, with updated terminology.

Why Other Options Were Wrong

  • Option A: This option is technically correct, as Hypochondriasis is a type of somatoform disorder. However, it is an incomplete answer because other options are also correct.
  • Option B: This option is technically correct, as Conversion Disorder is a type of somatoform disorder. However, it is an incomplete answer because other options are also correct.
  • Option C: This option is technically correct, as Pain Disorder is a type of somatoform disorder. However, it is an incomplete answer because other options are also correct.

Related Visual

Visual explanation — Related Visual
Clinical Relevance
  • Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Classification of Somatoform Disorders as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
  • Nurses must approach patients with somatic symptoms with empathy and validation, avoiding dismissive language like 'it's all in your head.' The patient's suffering is real, regardless of the underlying cause.
  • The primary nursing goal is to help the patient improve functioning rather than seeking a cure for the physical symptoms. This involves promoting coping strategies, stress management, and regular, consistent follow-up with a primary provider to limit 'doctor shopping' and unnecessary tests.
  • Patient education on the mind-body connection is crucial. Teaching relaxation techniques, sleep hygiene, and graded physical activity can help manage symptoms.
How to Approach the Question
  • First, identify the core concept of the question, which is 'Somatoform disorder'.
  • Recall the definition and examples of this category of mental health conditions.
  • Evaluate each option (A, B, and C) to see if it fits the definition of a somatoform disorder.
  • Recognize that Hypochondriasis, Conversion disorder, and Pain disorder are all well-known examples.
  • When multiple options are correct and an 'All of the above' option is available, it is the most complete and therefore the best answer.
Concept Tested & Keywords
  • Concept Tested: Classification of Somatoform Disorders
  • Stem keywords: Somatoform disorder
  • Lead-in keywords: Which is

Question ID

Q4zbbkl4jY3NgoHPoGm1Uj

Reference Book

E6 Medicine Davidson Principles Practice 24e p. 1222-1224

E6 Robert Boland, Marcia L. Verduin - Kaplan and Sadock's Comprehensive Text of Psychiatry-Wolters Kluwer Health (2024) (pp 1-16525 of 16525) p. 9540-9542

E6 Kaplan Sadock's Synopsis of Psychiatry-2022 (pp 1-3768 of 3768) p. 1441-1443

Practise the full Central Institute of Psychiatry - 9 July 2022

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.

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