A nurse is assisting with the court-ordered admission of a client to a substance-abuse program. The client states, "You are all angry at me and wish you could go out and have a drink." The client's response is an example of which of the following defense mechanisms?

Reaction-formation

Compensation

Projection

Identification

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Projection is a defense mechanism where an individual attributes their own undesirable thoughts, feelings, or impulses onto someone else. In this case, the client is projecting their own desire to go out and have a drink onto the nurse and others involved in their care. They are attributing their own feelings to others in an attempt to avoid acknowledging or taking responsibility for their own desires.

A- Reaction-formation is a defense mechanism where an individual expresses the opposite of their true feelings or impulses.

B- Compensation is a defense mechanism where an individual tries to make up for their perceived deficiencies by excelling in another area.

D- Identification is a defense mechanism where an individual models their behavior after someone they admire.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

This response reflects the therapeutic communication technique of reflection and validation. By acknowledging the client's feelings and reflecting on them back, the nurse shows empathy and encourages further discussion. It allows the client to express their emotions and concerns, fostering a trusting and supportive relationship between the nurse and the client.

incorrect:

A. "You are in really good shape for your age." This response dismisses the client's expressed feelings of despair and does not address the underlying emotions. It fails to acknowledge the client's emotional state and may minimize their concerns.

B. "This is just a minor setback. You will be back on your feet in no time." While the intention may be to provide reassurance, this response invalidates the client's feelings of hopelessness and disregards the significance of their emotional experience. It does not address the client's statement of feeling that their time is up.

C. "The doctors are going to take good care of you. There is nothing to worry about." This response focuses solely on the medical aspect of care and may disregard the client's emotional and existential concerns. It fails to acknowledge the client's expressed feelings of their time being up and does not encourage further exploration of their emotions.

A. Explore the truth of the client's statements. B. Establish a therapeutic nurse-client relationship. C. Set behavioral limits for the client D. Show the client around the unit and introduce her to other clients.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

The priority action in this situation is to set behavioral limits for the client. This is important for maintaining a safe environment for the client, other staff members, and other clients. By setting limits, the nurse establishes clear boundaries and expectations for behavior, helping to prevent the escalation of aggression or violence.
Let's examine why the other choices are incorrect:

A. Exploring the truth of the client's statements: While it is important to listen to and validate the client's concerns, in this particular situation, where the client is becoming agitated and confrontational, addressing the truth of their statements is not the priority. The immediate concern is ensuring safety and de-escalating the situation.

B. Establishing a therapeutic nurse-client relationship: Developing a therapeutic relationship is crucial for providing effective care, but it may not be the immediate priority when a client is displaying aggressive or violent behavior. Safety takes precedence in such situations, and setting behavioral limits is necessary before establishing a therapeutic relationship can effectively occur.

D. Showing the client around the unit and introducing her to other clients: This action is inappropriate during an agitated and confrontational episode. It is important to first
address the client's behavior and ensure the safety of all individuals involved before engaging in social activities or introductions.

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A nurse is assisting with the court-ordered admission of a client to a substance-abuse program. The client states, "You are all angry at me and wish you could go out and have a drink." The client's response is an example of which of the following defense mechanisms?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is caring for an older adult client who has a fractured hip. The client says, "I guess I've lived long enough and my time is up." Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A nurse is assisting in the admission process for a client who has a history of violent behavior. The client stands up and begins clenching her fists and arguing with the nurse. Which of the following actions is the priority?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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