Hypochondriasis Disorder
According to Medline Plus:
Definition
Also known as illness anxiety disorder. Belief that one is showing physical symptoms of a disease when there is no medical proof to confirm it.
Causes
Overly focused and always thinking about their health
They worry about any slight physical sensations which causes them to believe something is wrong
According to Medline Plus:
Signs and Symptoms
Unable to control their fears or worries
Believe any sensation is a sign of serious illness
Constantly seeking out reassurance from family, friends, and healthcare providers
Often examine their own body
According to Medline Plus:
Treatments
Psychotherapy, medication, or mixture of both
Psychotherapy will help client recognize what …show more content…
Ensure safety of the client.
Reassure client about positive feedback from a physician. Client may not fully understand when everything's ok which causes more anxiety and worry.
Identify yourself every time you come in contact with client. Client may forget who you are so just clarify why you are there with them.
Encourage client to identify which stressors causes the moments of anxiety. Knowing the stressors gives the nurse the ability to know when to intervene.
Monitor client closely for any signs and symptoms of infections. Stress can lower the immune system so make sure to monitor any physical changes.
Administer Lexapro per doctor’s order before any therapy. Allows the client to feel more relaxed when expressing any stressors.
Nursing Interventions for Lexapro
Monitor for therapeutic effectiveness
Observe client for any worsening symptoms of depression
Periodically monitor hepatic function, CBC, serum sodium, and lithium levels
Goals
Manage any physical symptoms
Effectively manage any stressors with appropriate coping mechanisms
Increase the quality of life
Stay with one physician if any symptoms do
According to Medline Plus:
Definition
Also known as illness anxiety disorder. Belief that one is showing physical symptoms of a disease when there is no medical proof to confirm it.
Causes
Overly focused and always thinking about their health
They worry about any slight physical sensations which causes them to believe something is wrong
According to Medline Plus:
Signs and Symptoms
Unable to control their fears or worries
Believe any sensation is a sign of serious illness
Constantly seeking out reassurance from family, friends, and healthcare providers
Often examine their own body
According to Medline Plus:
Treatments
Psychotherapy, medication, or mixture of both
Psychotherapy will help client recognize what …show more content…
Ensure safety of the client.
Reassure client about positive feedback from a physician. Client may not fully understand when everything's ok which causes more anxiety and worry.
Identify yourself every time you come in contact with client. Client may forget who you are so just clarify why you are there with them.
Encourage client to identify which stressors causes the moments of anxiety. Knowing the stressors gives the nurse the ability to know when to intervene.
Monitor client closely for any signs and symptoms of infections. Stress can lower the immune system so make sure to monitor any physical changes.
Administer Lexapro per doctor’s order before any therapy. Allows the client to feel more relaxed when expressing any stressors.
Nursing Interventions for Lexapro
Monitor for therapeutic effectiveness
Observe client for any worsening symptoms of depression
Periodically monitor hepatic function, CBC, serum sodium, and lithium levels
Goals
Manage any physical symptoms
Effectively manage any stressors with appropriate coping mechanisms
Increase the quality of life
Stay with one physician if any symptoms do