Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

Which of the following is true about somatization disorder?

1. It affects only women

2. It is always secondary to another mental health issue

3. It can lead to unnecessary medical procedures

4. It requires a physical exam for diagnosis

The correct answer is: It can lead to unnecessary medical procedures

Somatization disorder, classified under somatic symptom and related disorders, is characterized by the presence of physical symptoms that are distressing or result in significant disruption of daily functioning, but cannot be fully explained by a medical condition. The correct response highlights that individuals with somatization disorder may undergo unnecessary medical procedures due to their persistent thoughts and concerns about physical symptoms. These patients often seek medical attention and can lead to extensive diagnostic testing and treatment that may not be warranted, which can burden healthcare resources and impact the patient’s quality of life. Recognizing this aspect is crucial because healthcare providers need to approach these cases with an understanding of the psychological components involved, aiming to address both physical symptoms and the underlying psychological factors, thus promoting a more effective and holistic treatment approach.