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?

Involuntary commitment is a legal process where an individual is admitted to a psychiatric facility against their will due to a perceived risk of harm to themselves or others. The primary concern in involuntary commitment is the safety and well-being of the individual and those around them.

Therefore, it is important for the nurse to inform the client's family about the reason for the involuntary commitment, emphasizing that the client's behavior poses a threat to themselves or others.

incorrect:

A. "A psychiatrist determines that the client's behavior is irrational." This statement focuses on the client's behavior being irrational, which is not the primary criteria for involuntary commitment. It is more important to emphasize the potential harm the client may cause to themselves or others.

B. "The client is unable to manage the affairs necessary for daily life." While this may be a factor contributing to the need for psychiatric treatment, it is not the specific reason for involuntary commitment. The main concern is the risk of harm associated with the client's behavior.

D. "The client has been accused of breaking the law." Involuntary commitment is not based on accusations of breaking the law. It is primarily focused on the safety and well-being of the individual and the potential risk they pose to themselves or others.

The appropriate response by the nurse in this situation is to set clear boundaries and remove themselves from the situation. By stating, "I'm going to leave now and I'll return in one hour to spend time with you then," the nurse establishes that the inappropriate behavior is not acceptable and that they will return later to continue providing care within professional boundaries.

A- "I'm sure that you don't intend to behave this way, so I'm going to ignore this behavior" is not an appropriate response. Ignoring the behavior can potentially enable or encourage further inappropriate advances, and it does not address the issue directly.

B- "I'm curious as to why you are behaving this way. Can you please explain it to me?" places the responsibility on the client to explain their behavior, which is not appropriate or necessary in this situation. It may also encourage further discussion of the inappropriate behavior.

C- "I'm very flattered, but I am married and cannot engage in this behavior" personalizes the situation and may give the wrong impression that the nurse's marital status is the reason for rejecting the advances. It is important to maintain professional boundaries and not involve personal factors in the response.