A 20-year-old college student arrives at the student health center during finals week complaining of "stomach problems."
She broke up with her boyfriend in the first week of the semester and has not been feeling well or doing well in school since. The nurse is aware that:
A) The "stomach problems" may be cardiac related and she could be in danger.
B) The boyfriend is the core issue and a plan of care that addresses his influence is important.
C) The girl is probably not telling the truth and could be in an abusive relationship.
D) The "stomach problems" are likely related to stress and depression.
Ans: D
Feedback: People who are depressed often seek health care for somatic manifestations of depression such as stomach problems, fatigue, and/or inability to cope with their activities of daily living, like work or school. Option A is a valid concern, but she has not been feeling well for a long period of time and cardiac risk is low in this age group. Options B and C are incorrect; the situation requires an assessment first before the boyfriend is included in the diagnosis or we assume the girl is not telling the truth.
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