A nurse is assisting in the care of a client whose partner has end-stage lung cancer. The client states, "The doctors say he only has a few months to live, but I know that with treatment he will get better." The nurse should identify that the client is exhibiting which of the following defense mechanisms?
Splitting
Denial
Displacement
Repression
The Correct Answer is B
A. Splitting : Splitting is a defense mechanism where a person sees others as all good or all bad, which is not evident in this scenario.
B. Denial: Denial is refusing to accept reality as a way to cope with distress. The client rejects the prognosis and insists on recovery despite medical evidence.
C. Displacement : Displacement is shifting emotions onto a less threatening target (e.g., being angry at a nurse instead of at the bad news).
D. Repression : Repression is unconsciously blocking out distressing thoughts rather than actively rejecting the reality of a loved one’s condition.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Social worker: Social workers specialize in finding housing, connecting clients to resources, and advocating for their needs.
B. Psychologist: Psychologists provide therapy and mental health assessments but do not arrange housing.
C. Behavioral therapist: Behavioral therapists focus on therapy for behavior modification rather than social needs like housing.
D. Psychiatrist: Psychiatrists diagnose and treat mental health conditions with therapy and medications, not housing assistance.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. "I am trying to help you, but you haven't told me why you are overwhelmed yet." This response sounds dismissive and places responsibility on the client, which may increase their frustration.
B. "Have you tried to avoid the situations that are causing you so much stress?" Avoidance is not a healthy coping mechanism and does not encourage the client to express their feelings.
C. "Tell me about what you are doing to reduce or cope with your stress." While this encourages self-reflection, it does not validate the client’s distress or express empathy.
D. "I would like to help you. Can you tell me more about what you are feeling?" This response shows empathy, offers support, and invites the client to express their emotions, which are key aspects of therapeutic communication.
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