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

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

The patient diagnosed with a somatic system disorder frequently has altered comfort and activity needs. 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 system disorders often derive secondary gain from their symptoms and/or have considerable difficulty identifying feelings and conveying emotional needs to others.