A medical-surgical nurse works with a patient diagnosed with a ...

[Shelles]

A medical-surgical nurse works with a patient diagnosed with a somatic system disorder. Care planning is facilitated by understanding that the patient will probably:
 
  a. Readily seek psychiatric counseling.
  b. Be resistant to accepting psychiatric help.
  c. Attend psychotherapy sessions without encouragement.
  d. Be eager to discover the true reasons for physical symptoms.

Question 2

A nurse plans health teaching for a patient with generalized anxiety disorder who takes lorazepam (Ativan). What information should be included? Select all that apply.
 
  a. Use caution when operating machinery.
  b. Allowed tyramine-free foods in diet.
  c. Understand the importance of caffeine restriction.
  d. Avoid alcohol and other sedatives.
  e. Take the medication on an empty stomach.

[vseab]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
Patients with somatic system disorders go from physician to physician trying to establish a physical cause for their symptoms. When a psychologic basis is suggested and a referral for counseling is offered, these patients reject both.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A, C, D
Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant that acts as an antagonist to the benzodiazepine lorazepam. Daily caffeine intake should be reduced to the amount contained in one cup of coffee. Benzodiazepines are sedatives, thus the importance of exercising caution when driving or using machinery and the importance of not using other central nervous system depressants such as alcohol or sedatives to avoid potentiation. Benzodiazepines do not require a special diet. Food will reduce gastric irritation from the medication.