A nurse is caring for a client who has been diagnosed with end-stage liver cancer. Which of the following responses is an indication the client is in the denial phase of the grief process?
I need someone near me all the time, l am very tired.
The doctor has been so good to me. I know he has tried everything he can. It is just my time.
The doctor says only have a few months to live, but know he is exaggerating to get me to take my medication.
Even though am not hurting right now, I don't feel like I have the energy to get out of bed.
The Correct Answer is C
This statement shows that the client is not accepting the reality of their prognosis and is dismissing the doctor's professional opinion. Denial is a common stage in the grief process where individuals may refuse to believe or accept a difficult reality, often as a coping mechanism to avoid the pain and sadness of the situation. Options a, b, d, and e do not indicate denial and instead may suggest fatigue, acceptance, physical weakness, and anger or frustration, respectively.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
If the nurse has concerns about the prescribed dose of an antianxiety medication being higher than the usual adult dose, they should hold the medication and consult with the health care provider before administering it. This will allow the health care provider to review the prescription and make any necessary adjustments to ensure the safety and well-being of the patient.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Denial is a defense mechanism where an individual refuses to accept or acknowledge the existence of a problem or a reality that causes anxiety or distress. In this scenario, the client is denying that their coughing is related to their lung cancer, and instead attributing it to a common cold that everyone is getting. This denial may be a way for the client to avoid facing the reality of their illness and the potential consequences of smoking.
Option b, reaction formation, is a defense mechanism where an individual expresses feelings or behaviors that are the opposite of their true feelings to reduce anxiety.
Option c, sublimation, is a defense mechanism where an individual channels their unacceptable impulses into more acceptable or socially appropriate behaviors.
Option d, suppression, is a defense mechanism where an individual consciously pushes down or avoids their thoughts or feelings. None of these defense mechanisms are being exhibited in the scenario described.
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