A nurse is caring for a client who begins to make sexual advances towards him. Which of the following is an appropriate statement by the nurse?

Repression is a defense mechanism that involves pushing distressing or anxiety-provoking thoughts, memories, or impulses into the unconscious mind. By repressing these thoughts, the individual can avoid dealing with the associated anxiety or discomfort. In the given scenario, the client escapes from anxiety-causing thoughts by ignoring their existence, which aligns with the concept of repression.

Denial, another defense mechanism, involves refusing to acknowledge the existence of a distressing reality or truth. However, in this case, the client is not denying the existence of the thoughts but rather ignoring or avoiding them.

Splitting is a defense mechanism characterized by the inability to integrate positive and negative qualities of oneself or others into a cohesive whole. It is not applicable in this situation.

Sublimation is a defense mechanism in which individuals redirect their unacceptable impulses into more socially acceptable outlets. It involves channeling potentially harmful or unacceptable desires into constructive behaviors. The given scenario does not reflect sublimation as the individual is not redirecting their anxiety into a productive activity or behavior.

The perception of family can vary among individuals, and it is important to respect the client's definition of family. By including people whom the client views as family, the nurse acknowledges the client's preferences and ensures that those who hold significance and provide support in the client's life are present during the interview.

Let's review the other options and explain why they may not be the most appropriate methods:

A. Include people who can support the client adequately: While it is important to involve individuals who can support the client, determining who can provide adequate support should be based on the client's perception and preference. The client's perspective on who can offer support may differ from the nurse's assessment, so it is crucial to involve individuals whom the client identifies as supportive.

B. Include people who live in the same house with the client: Proximity of residence does not necessarily determine the level of support or the client's perception of family. Including only individuals who live with the client may exclude other significant individuals in the client's life who may play a vital role in their support network.

D. Include people who are related to the client by blood and marriage: While blood relatives and family members by marriage can be important sources of support, it is not the sole criterion for inclusion. Clients may have chosen family or close friends who they consider to be their primary support system.