Patient Psychology & Counseling Flashcards

A patient who initially coped well with facial disfigurement begins showing signs of depression two years after prosthetic fitting. This pattern is best explained by:

Answer: Psychological adjustment being a dynamic, ongoing process that can shift over time

Psychological adjustment to disfigurement is not a fixed outcome; life events and changed circumstances can trigger renewed distress even after initial successful adaptation.

The 'appearance schema' concept in cognitive-behavioral therapy applied to craniofacial patients refers to:

Answer: Core beliefs and mental frameworks through which patients interpret events in relation to their appearance

Appearance schemas are cognitive structures—deeply held beliefs about appearance—that filter how patients interpret social interactions and self-perception.

When a patient asks the anaplastologist for advice on whether to disclose their prosthesis to a new romantic partner, the most appropriate response is:

Answer: Acknowledge this is a personal decision and explore the patient's own values and concerns

Disclosure decisions in personal relationships are deeply personal; the anaplastologist's role is to facilitate exploration of the patient's own values, not to direct the decision.

Which validated assessment tool is commonly used to measure the psychological impact of visible difference in patients receiving craniofacial prostheses?

Answer: The Derriford Appearance Scale (DAS)

The Derriford Appearance Scale is a validated psychometric instrument specifically designed to assess distress and dysfunction related to appearance concerns.

A pediatric patient with a congenital auricular defect is teased at school about their ear prosthesis. The anaplastologist's most comprehensive response should include:

Answer: Addressing both the child's emotional response and collaborating with parents and school personnel on a support plan

A comprehensive approach addresses the child's psychological response while also engaging the social environment (family and school) to reduce teasing and build resilience.

In the context of craniofacial rehabilitation, the term 'quality of life' encompasses which of the following domains?

Answer: Physical, psychological, social, and environmental dimensions of well-being

Quality of life is a multidimensional construct that includes physical, psychological, social, and environmental domains as defined by the WHO.

An elderly patient insists they do not need counseling support, stating 'I'm too old to be bothered by this.' The anaplastologist should:

Answer: Respect the stated preference while remaining attentive to signs of distress and keeping support resources available

Respecting patient autonomy does not mean ignoring potential distress; remaining observant and keeping resources available ensures care without coercion.