A 40-year-old patient cries and has a tantrum when the health care provider refuses to give her a prescription for diet pills. The nurse realizes that this is the use of which defense mechanism?
Projection
Repression
Denial
Regression
The Correct Answer is D
A. Projection involves attributing one’s own unacceptable feelings or thoughts onto another person. However, in this case, the patient’s tantrum and crying are more about their own inability to handle the refusal rather than projecting feelings onto others.
B. Repression is a defense mechanism where distressing thoughts or feelings are unconsciously blocked from entering awareness. For instance, if the patient were to push aside their feelings of disappointment about not receiving the diet pills without expressing them, that would be repression.
C. Denial involves refusing to accept reality or facts that are distressing or threatening. However, the primary behavior in this situation is the tantrum and crying, which are more indicative of another defense mechanism rather than outright denial.
D. Regression is a defense mechanism where an individual reverts to behaviors characteristic of an
earlier developmental stage in response to stress or conflict. The patient’s crying and tantrum can be seen as regressive behavior because it reflects a return to more childlike or immature ways of handling frustration, similar to how a child might react to not getting what they want.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. This response is accusatory and invalidates the client's feelings. It's important to approach the client with empathy and understanding.
B. It shows the nurse's interest and willingness to understand the client's perspective. By asking open- ended questions, the nurse can explore the reasons behind the client's reluctance and offer support accordingly.
C. While it may be beneficial for the client to participate in activities, pressuring them or convincing them might not be effective. It's important to respect the client's feelings and work with them to find ways to overcome their reluctance.
D. This approach is directive and dismissive of the client's feelings. It's essential to involve the client in the decision-making process and address their concerns before expecting them to participate in an activity.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. This is a premature conclusion. While Alzheimer's disease is a possibility, it's essential to rule out other potential causes before making a diagnosis.
B. A comprehensive evaluation can help identify the underlying cause of the symptoms, which could be Alzheimer's disease, other forms of dementia, or even treatable conditions like vitamin deficiencies or thyroid problems.
C. Admission to a nursing home is premature and may not be necessary. The appropriate level of care will depend on the diagnosis and severity of the symptoms.
D. While some memory changes are normal with aging, the described symptoms are more severe than typical age-related forgetfulness. It's important to investigate the cause to determine if there are any underlying medical conditions or cognitive impairments.
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