A nurse assessing a patient diagnosed with a somatic symptom disorder is most likely to note that the patient

A) sees a relationship between symptoms and interpersonal conflicts.
B) has little difficulty communicating emotional needs to others.
C) rarely derives personal benefit from the symptoms.
D) has altered comfort and activity needs.

The patient frequently has altered comfort and activity needs associated with the symptoms displayed (fatigue, insomnia, weakness, tension, pain, etc.). In addition, hygiene, safety, and security needs may also be compromised. The patient is rarely able to see a relation between symptoms and events in his or her life, which is readily discernible to health professionals. Patients with somatic symptom disorders often derive secondary gain from their symptoms and/or have considerable difficulty identifying feelings and conveying emotional needs to others.