A nurse is caring for a client who has a new diagnosis of metastatic lung cancer. The client states, "I can't think about that until after my first grandchild is born next week." The nurse should identify the client's statement as indicating the maladaptive use of which of the following defense mechanisms?
Suppression
Regression
Compensation
Sublimation
The Correct Answer is A
A. Suppression:
Suppression is a psychological defense mechanism where an individual consciously avoids thinking about certain thoughts, emotions, or impulses. It involves intentionally putting aside disturbing or anxiety-inducing thoughts temporarily. People use suppression as a way to cope with overwhelming emotions or stressful situations by delaying dealing with them until they feel more prepared.
B. Regression:
Regression is a defense mechanism where an individual reverts to a previous stage of development in the face of stressful situations. For example, an adult may exhibit childlike behaviors or emotions during times of high stress. This regression is an unconscious way of seeking comfort and security from an earlier, less stressful time in life.
C. Compensation:
Compensation is a defense mechanism in which an individual tries to make up for a perceived deficiency in one area by excelling in another. For instance, someone who feels unattractive might compensate by becoming exceptionally skilled in a particular talent. Compensation involves overachieving in one area to cover up feelings of inadequacy in another.
D. Sublimation:
Sublimation is a defense mechanism where socially unacceptable impulses or urges are channeled into socially acceptable and productive activities. For example, someone with aggressive tendencies might channel their aggression into sports or artistic pursuits. Sublimation involves transforming negative emotions or desires into positive, socially acceptable behaviors.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Instruct the client to consume a low-sodium diet to decrease hand tremors:
While maintaining a stable sodium intake is important for individuals taking lithium to avoid fluctuations in lithium levels, a low-sodium diet is not specifically indicated to address hand tremors caused by lithium. Adjusting sodium levels is more about maintaining a consistent intake to stabilize lithium levels over time.
B. Teach the client to take the lithium in a single daily dose:
Lithium is often prescribed in divided doses to maintain stable blood levels throughout the day and minimize side effects. However, the dosing regimen (once or multiple times a day) is usually determined by the healthcare provider based on the individual's needs. Changing the dosing frequency is not the primary intervention for managing hand tremors.
C. Contact the provider for a possible decrease in the lithium dosage:
Hand tremors are a common side effect of lithium. If a client is experiencing bothersome side effects within the therapeutic range, the appropriate action is to contact the healthcare provider. The provider can assess the situation, possibly adjust the dosage, or explore other management options to alleviate the tremors while maintaining the therapeutic effect of the medication.
D. Encourage the client to take naproxen sodium to decrease tremors:
Encouraging the client to take naproxen sodium or any other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) is not recommended when the client is on lithium therapy. NSAIDs can interact with lithium, potentially leading to increased lithium levels and toxicity. Combining these medications should be avoided.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Monitor the client's sodium levels:
This action is not directly related to the administration of olanzapine. Olanzapine does not typically affect sodium levels directly. Monitoring sodium levels is essential for some other medications or conditions, but it is not a specific consideration for olanzapine administration.
B. Evaluate the client's frequency of panic attacks:
Evaluating the frequency of panic attacks is not directly related to the administration of olanzapine. Olanzapine is an antipsychotic medication used to treat conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It is not primarily indicated for the treatment of panic attacks. Monitoring panic attacks would be relevant if the client's primary concern was panic disorder, but it's not the priority in this scenario.
C. Inform the client that application site rash is common:
This information is not relevant to the administration of olanzapine in the form of an intramuscular injection. Application site rash is a concern for topical medications or transdermal patches, not for IM injections. Therefore, informing the client about application site rash is not necessary in this context.
D. Observe the client for 3 hours following the administration of medication:
This is the correct action. Olanzapine extended-release IM injection requires close observation for at least 3 hours after administration. This monitoring period is essential due to the potential risk of post-injection delirium/sedation syndrome, which can occur shortly after the injection. Monitoring allows for the early detection of any adverse reactions, ensuring the client's safety and well-being.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.