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 A
Explanation
A. Pseudoephedrine
Clients taking phenelzine, which is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) used to treat depression, need to avoid certain over-the-counter medications, especially those containing sympathomimetic amines like pseudoephedrine. Combining MAOIs with sympathomimetic medications can lead to a severe increase in blood pressure, potentially causing a hypertensive crisis.
B. Docusate sodium:
Docusate sodium is a stool softener and is generally safe to use with phenelzine. It does not have significant interactions with MAOIs.
C. Ranitidine:
Ranitidine is an H2 blocker used to reduce stomach acid production. It does not have significant interactions with phenelzine.
D. Ibuprofen:
Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for pain and inflammation. While it does not interact directly with phenelzine, individuals taking phenelzine should avoid other medications, especially NSAIDs, that can increase the risk of bleeding due to phenelzine's effects on platelet function. However, this interaction is not as severe as the interaction between phenelzine and sympathomimetic medications like pseudoephedrine.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Reaction Formation:
Reaction formation is a defense mechanism where an individual expresses feelings or behaviors that are the opposite of their true feelings or impulses. For example, someone who harbors unconscious aggressive feelings might display exaggerated friendliness and kindness. In the given scenario, the behavior of the newly licensed nurse is not contradictory to their true feelings; they are imitating the charge nurse willingly.
B. Suppression:
Suppression is a conscious effort to push down or hide certain thoughts or feelings. Unlike repression (which is unconscious), suppression involves a deliberate choice not to think about or dwell on certain emotions or thoughts. In the scenario, the behavior of the newly licensed nurse is not an example of suppression because they are not consciously trying to hide their actions.
C. Identification:
Identification is a defense mechanism where an individual unconsciously models their behavior, feelings, or attitudes after those of someone else, especially someone they perceive as powerful or significant. In this scenario, the newly licensed nurse is imitating the behaviors of the charge nurse, which is an example of identification.
D. Compensation:
Compensation is a defense mechanism where an individual consciously or unconsciously covers up weaknesses, frustrations, or feelings of inadequacy by emphasizing strengths or seeking to excel in other areas. It involves making up for a perceived lack by putting extra effort into another aspect of life. The scenario does not describe the newly licensed nurse compensating for any perceived weakness; they are simply imitating the charge nurse's behavior.
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