schizophrenia....question

Hi, just a quick question for the pros.....I'm studying for my final and have managed to confuse myself. What is the difference between disorganized and undifferentiated schizophrenia? Thanks!!

Teresa

Well, disorganized schizophrenia is characterized by a flat affect, bizarre manerisms and social isolation. This type occurs early in life and is usually chronic.

Undifferentiated schizophrenia is a category used when a pt's symptoms are mixed and can't be clearly defined in a category.

Other categories include: paranoid schizo, catatonic schizo and residual schizo. These should all be in your textbook.

Hope this helps.

Thanks for the info...the text book wasn't real clear on the differences. So, disorganized doesn't necessarily have delusions or hallucinations? And undifferentiated is when they don't fit into paranoid, catatonic, residual categories? I don't think I'm cut out to be a psyche nurse! That is one tough subject, and I keep thinking, if I can't even think of the right thing to say in social conversation, how in the heck can I expect to say the right, therapeutic thing in the psyche setting?! My hat is off to all of you psyche nurses! Thanks again!

If you can reference a DSM-IVR (or are we at V now??) this should clarify symptoms from each dx.

Keep in mind, the dx can change, dependent upon presenting symptoms...

SJ