A nurse is assessing a client who has multiple injuries from a motor vehicle crash as a result of driving while under the influence of alcohol. The client tells the nurse," I had a few drinks after my boss fired me, but it's okay. Everything will work out somehow next week." Which of the following defense mechanisms is the client demonstrating?

Answer: (D) Encourage the client to discuss the problem with other clients

Rationale:

A) Call housekeeping to clean up the lounge: While involving housekeeping might address the immediate issue, it does not empower the client or involve them in the community aspect of the unit. The goal in a mental health setting is to encourage clients to take an active role in resolving communal issues, fostering responsibility, and promoting interpersonal communication.

B) Promise the client that the issue will be discussed at the next community meeting: While addressing the issue in a community meeting is appropriate, simply promising to bring it up without involving the client may not address the immediate concern or empower the client to take an active role. The client might feel dismissed if their concerns are not immediately acknowledged or acted upon.

C) Help the client clean up the dayroom: Assisting the client in cleaning the lounge may resolve the mess temporarily but does not address the underlying issue of other clients leaving trash. It is more beneficial for the client to engage in communication with their peers to foster a sense of community and mutual respect.

D) Encourage the client to discuss the problem with other clients: Encouraging the client to communicate directly with their peers is a therapeutic approach that fosters assertiveness and problem-solving skills. It allows the client to express their concerns and take responsibility for addressing issues within the community, which is beneficial in their mental health recovery process.

This response reflects active listening and demonstrates empathy towards the client's feelings. It acknowledges the client's distress and encourages them to express their concerns and thoughts. By actively listening and showing genuine interest, the nurse can gather more information to assess the client's needs and determine the appropriate course of action.

Let's discuss why the other options are incorrect:

A. "Everything will be okay until morning. You can speak with your provider then." This response may dismiss or invalidate the client's current distress and fails to address their immediate concerns. It suggests waiting until morning without exploring the reasons behind the client's urgency.

C. "Go back to your room, and I'll try to get in touch with your provider in the morning." While the intention may be to offer assistance, this response does not address the client's emotional state or explore the reasons for their demand to see the provider. It may also not address the client's immediate needs and concerns.

D. "Why don't you wait until the morning? The provider will be available then." This response may come across as dismissive and may not acknowledge the client's current distress. It does not encourage the client to express their concerns or provide an opportunity for open communication.