Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

What is a priority assessment for a nurse caring for a client with somatoform disorder?

1. Client's medication compliance.

2. Client's nutrition intake.

3. Client's experience of depression symptoms.

4. Client's family history of anxiety.

The correct answer is: Client's experience of depression symptoms.

In the context of caring for a client with somatoform disorder, assessing the client's experience of depression symptoms is a key priority. Individuals with somatoform disorder often present with physical symptoms that cannot be fully explained by medical conditions, and these symptoms can significantly contribute to their emotional distress, sometimes manifesting as depression. Evaluating the client's mental health allows the nurse to understand the psychological factors affecting the client, which is essential for the development of an effective care plan. Understanding the severity and nature of the client’s depressive symptoms can guide interventions and help in addressing any underlying mental health issues. Depression in such clients may influence their perception of physical symptoms and their overall coping strategies. While medication compliance, nutrition intake, and family history of anxiety are important assessments in a comprehensive evaluation of the client’s health, they do not directly address the emotional and psychological aspects that are often at the forefront in somatoform disorders. Focusing on depression symptoms helps prioritize the mental health support necessary for these clients.