A nurse is caring for a client who appears anxious following a recent tragedy.
Which of the following statements by the client reflects an adaptive use of sublimation?
"I can't remember anything that happened, but I am okay."
"I'm not capable of moving past this time in my life."
"I do not have anxiety, and I'm not sure why you think I do."
"I will work out in the gym every time I get mad about what happened.".
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale:
Repression: This statement suggests that the client is unconsciously blocking out memories of the tragedy as a way to cope with the anxiety. While repression can be a defense mechanism, it's not considered an adaptive use of sublimation.
Sublimation involves channeling anxiety into a productive or socially acceptable activity.
Denial of anxiety: The client's denial of anxiety, despite outward signs of distress, indicates a lack of awareness or acceptance of their emotional state. This can hinder effective coping and processing of the trauma.
Potential for delayed or prolonged distress: Repressed memories can resurface later, often in unexpected or disruptive ways, potentially leading to prolonged or intensified distress.
Choice B rationale:
Hopelessness and helplessness: The client's statement reflects a sense of defeat and a belief that they are incapable of overcoming the trauma. This can lead to feelings of despair, isolation, and withdrawal.
Lack of adaptive coping mechanisms: The client's inability to envision a future beyond the tragedy suggests a lack of healthy coping strategies to manage their anxiety and move forward.
Risk of prolonged distress and potential for depression: Persistent feelings of hopelessness and helplessness can increase the risk of developing depression or other mental health conditions.
Choice C rationale:
Denial of anxiety and potential lack of insight: The client's denial of anxiety, despite the nurse's observation, suggests a lack of awareness or acceptance of their emotional state. This can impede effective coping and processing of the trauma.
Potential resistance to support: The client's defensiveness may make it challenging for them to receive support or engage in therapeutic interventions.
Risk of delayed or unmanaged distress: If the client continues to deny their anxiety, they may not seek appropriate help, potentially leading to prolonged or intensified distress.
Choice D rationale:
Sublimation: This statement demonstrates the client's ability to channel their anxiety into a constructive and healthy outlet. Physical activity can provide a release for pent-up emotions, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being.
Adaptive coping mechanism: The client's choice to engage in physical activity as a way to manage their emotions indicates a positive coping strategy that can promote resilience and recovery.
Potential for improved mental and physical health: Regular exercise has numerous benefits for both mental and physical health, which can support the client's overall well-being and recovery process.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Deflecting the client's concerns to the physician dismisses the client's immediate need for emotional support and therapeutic communication.
It can hinder the development of a trusting nurse-client relationship.
The nurse is responsible for addressing the client's psychosocial needs, not solely deferring them to other healthcare professionals.
Choice B rationale:
Offering false reassurance is inappropriate and potentially harmful. It can erode trust if the client's fears are later realized.
It minimizes the client's legitimate concerns and invalidates their emotional experience.
Choice C rationale:
While lifestyle modifications are essential for managing coronary artery disease, providing unsolicited advice at this moment disregards the client's emotional distress.
It prioritizes physical health over the client's psychological well-being. It can be perceived as dismissive of the client's fears and concerns.
Choice D rationale:
Inviting the client to elaborate on their fears demonstrates active listening and encourages therapeutic communication. It validates the client's concerns and shows empathy for their emotional experience.
It provides an opportunity to assess the client's understanding of their condition and identify specific fears or misconceptions. It establishes a foundation for exploring coping mechanisms and providing appropriate support and education.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Bradycardia
Bradycardia, or an abnormally slow heart rate, is a common cardiovascular manifestation in individuals with anorexia nervosa. It is often a result of the body’s adaptive response to conserve energy due to severe malnutrition and reduced caloric intake. This is because the body is trying to conserve as much energy as possible, and one way it does this is by slowing down the heart rate. This can be dangerous, however, as it can lead to fainting, heart failure, or even death if not properly managed.
Choice B rationale: Hyperactive bowel sounds
Hyperactive bowel sounds are not typically associated with anorexia nervosa. Instead, individuals with this disorder often experience constipation and other gastrointestinal issues due to inadequate food intake. The lack of food intake can slow down the digestive process, leading to these symptoms.
Choice C rationale: Dental erosion
Dental erosion can be a consequence of anorexia nervosa, but it is more commonly associated with bulimia nervosa due to the frequent vomiting that characterizes this disorder. The stomach acid that comes into contact with the teeth during vomiting can cause the enamel to erode. However, it’s important to note that not all individuals with anorexia nervosa will experience this symptom.
Choice D rationale: Hypertension
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is not typically associated with anorexia nervosa. In fact, low blood pressure (hypotension) is more common due to the decreased volume of blood in the body from insufficient nutrition.
Hypertension is more commonly associated with conditions such as obesity and metabolic syndrome.
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