Comprehensive exams for Mental Health Q 95
A client with schizophrenia tells the nurse, “My intestines are rotted from the worms chewing on them.” This statement indicates a:A. Delusion of persecution
A. Delusion of persecution
B. Delusion of grandeur
C. Somatic delusion
D. Jealous delusion
Correct Answer: C. Somatic delusion
Somatic delusions focus on bodily functions or systems and commonly include delusions about foul odor emissions, insect infestations, internal parasites, and misshapen parts. Of the delusional symptoms, somatic delusions-those that pertain to the body-are rather rare. Somatic delusions are defined as fixed false beliefs that one’s bodily function or appearance is grossly abnormal. They are a poorly understood psychiatric symptom and pose a significant clinical challenge to clinicians.
Option A: Delusions of persecution are morbid beliefs that one is being mistreated and harassed by unidentified enemies. Persecutory delusions occur when someone believes others are out to harm them despite evidence to the contrary. It’s a type of paranoid thinking that can be part of several different mental illnesses. Whether people with this condition think coworkers are sabotaging their work or they believe the government is trying to kill them, persecutory delusions vary in severity. Some individuals with persecutory delusions believe they have to go to great lengths to stay safe—and consequently, they may struggle to function normally.
Option B: Delusions of grandeur are gross exaggerations of one’s importance, wealth, power, or talents. A delusion of grandeur is the false belief in one’s own superiority, greatness, or intelligence. People experiencing delusions of grandeur do not just have high self-esteem; instead, they believe in their own greatness and importance even in the face of overwhelming evidence to the contrary. Someone might, for example, believe they are destined to be the leader of the world, despite having no leadership experience and difficulties in interpersonal relationships. Delusions of grandeur are characterized by their persistence. They are not just moments of fantasy or hopes for the future.
Option D: Jealous delusions are delusions that one’s spouse or lover is unfaithful. Delusional jealousy (also known as morbid jealousy) is one type of delusional disorder, and as the name implies people with jealous delusions are completely convinced that their spouses or romantic partners have been unfaithful.