Anxiety Disorders and Stress Q 34
Which outcome is most appropriate for Francis who has a dissociative disorder?
A. Francis will deal with uncomfortable emotions on a conscious level.
B. Francis will modify stress with the use of relaxation techniques.
C. Francis will identify his anxiety responses.
D. Francis will use problem-solving strategies when feeling stressed.
Correct Answer: A. Francis will deal with uncomfortable emotions on a conscious level.
Dissociative disorders occur when traumatic events are beyond an individual’s recall because these memories have been “blocked” from conscious awareness. Bringing the feelings associated with these events into conscious awareness and coping with these feelings will decrease the need for dissociation. Explore client’s feelings. Explore feelings that client experienced in response to the stressor; help client understand that the disequilibrium felt is acceptable-indeed, even expected-in times of severe stress.
Option B: Assess for stressors. Identify stressor that precipitated severe anxiety; this information is necessary to the development of an effective plan of client care and problem resolution. Encourage methods for coping. Have the client identify methods of coping with stress in the past and determine whether the response was adaptive or maladaptive.
Option C: Identify behavioral limits and behaviors that are expected. Client needs a clear structure. Expect frequent testing of limits initially. Maintaining limits can enhance feelings of safety in the client. Identify what the client sees as the behaviors and circumstances that lead to the hospitalization. Ascertain client’s understanding of behaviors and responsibility for own actions.
Option D: Ascertain from family/friends how the person interacts with significant people. Is the client always withdrawn, distrustful, hostile, and have continuous physical complaints? Identifying baseline behaviors helps with setting goals. When the client is ready and interested, teach client coping skills to help defuse tension and trouble feelings (e.g., anxiety reduction, assertiveness skills). Increasing skills helps the client use healthier ways to defuse tensions and get needs met.