A nurse at an urgent care center is caring for a client who sustained minor injuries during a street fight in which two of the client's friends were stabbing victims. The client tells the nurse that he doesn't remember anything that happened after he and his friends first saw the suspects in the stabbing. Which of the following defense mechanisms is the client demonstrating?

Involuntary commitment refers to the legal process by which an individual is admitted to a psychiatric facility for treatment against their will. The decision to involuntarily commit someone is typically based on the assessment that their behavior poses a risk of harm to themselves or others. Therefore, it is important for the nurse to inform the client's family that the reason for the involuntary commitment is the client's behavior being a threat to their own safety or the safety of others.

A."A psychiatrist determines that the client's behavior is irrational." This statement is incorrect because irrational behavior alone is not sufficient grounds for involuntary commitment.

Involuntary commitment is typically based on the assessment that the individual's behavior poses a risk of harm to themselves or others, rather than solely on the basis of irrational behavior.

B. "The client is unable to manage the affairs necessary for daily life." While the inability to manage daily affairs may be a factor considered in the overall assessment of a client's condition, it is not the sole criterion for involuntary commitment. Involuntary commitment is primarily focused on the risk of harm posed by the individual's behavior, rather than their ability to manage daily life tasks.

D. "The client has been accused of breaking the law." Accusations of breaking the law are not the basis for involuntary commitment. Involuntary commitment is based on the assessment that the individual's behavior presents a risk of harm to themselves or others. Legal issues are addressed separately through the legal system and are not directly related to the criteria for involuntary commitment.

The perception of family can vary among individuals, and it is important to respect the client's definition of family. By including people whom the client views as family, the nurse acknowledges the client's preferences and ensures that those who hold significance and provide support in the client's life are present during the interview.

Let's review the other options and explain why they may not be the most appropriate methods:

A. Include people who can support the client adequately: While it is important to involve individuals who can support the client, determining who can provide adequate support should be based on the client's perception and preference. The client's perspective on who can offer support may differ from the nurse's assessment, so it is crucial to involve individuals whom the client identifies as supportive.

B. Include people who live in the same house with the client: Proximity of residence does not necessarily determine the level of support or the client's perception of family. Including only individuals who live with the client may exclude other significant individuals in the client's life who may play a vital role in their support network.

D. Include people who are related to the client by blood and marriage: While blood relatives and family members by marriage can be important sources of support, it is not the sole criterion for inclusion. Clients may have chosen family or close friends who they consider to be their primary support system.