A nurse is caring for a client who has bipolar disorder.
The client yells at the nurse whenever medication changes are prescribed by the client's provider.
The nurse should identify that the client is using which of the following defense mechanisms?
Displacement.
Splitting.
Sublimation.
Conversion.
The Correct Answer is A
The correct answer is: a. Displacement.
Choice A Reason: Displacement is a defense mechanism where a person redirects a negative emotion from its original source to a less threatening recipient. In the context of bipolar disorder, a client may displace anger or frustration about their condition or treatment onto the nurse, who is not the source of these feelings. This redirection can occur because the client might feel powerless or uncomfortable expressing these emotions towards their healthcare provider, who is the authority figure prescribing medication changes.
Choice B Reason: Splitting is often associated with borderline personality disorder rather than bipolar disorder. It involves viewing things in extremes—either all good or all bad—with no middle ground. While individuals with bipolar disorder can exhibit black-and-white thinking, especially during mood episodes, the behavior described does not indicate splitting, as it does not involve idealizing or devaluing the nurse or provider.
Choice C Reason: Sublimation is a mature defense mechanism where socially unacceptable impulses or idealizations are unconsciously transformed into socially acceptable actions or behavior, often resulting in a long-term conversion of the initial impulse. For example, a person with aggressive tendencies might take up a sport that channels aggression in a socially acceptable way. The scenario provided does not suggest that the client is channeling their frustrations into a constructive activity.
Choice D Reason: Conversion involves the transfer of mental stress into physical symptoms. This defense mechanism is characteristic of conversion disorder, where psychological stress manifests as neurological symptoms like blindness, paralysis, or other sensory or motor symptoms without a medical cause. The client yelling at the nurse does not reflect a conversion of emotional distress into physical symptoms.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Asking, "What would your family do without you?" can be seen as judgmental and may not encourage open communication. It doesn't directly address the client's statement about feeling like a burden or wanting to be gone.
Choice B rationale:
Saying, "When you get better you will not feel this way," minimizes the client's feelings and can be invalidating. It does not show empathy or concern for the client's current emotional state.
Choice C rationale:
Asking, "Why would you think a thing like that?" can come across as judgmental and may make the client defensive. It does not directly address the client's emotional distress or suicidal ideation.
Choice D rationale:
This is the correct answer. "Are you thinking of hurting yourself?" is a direct and appropriate question to assess the client's risk of self-harm or suicide. It demonstrates concern for the client's well-being and opens the door for a more in-depth conversation about their feelings and thoughts. Assessing for suicidal ideation is a crucial step in providing appropriate care for a client with depressive disorder.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Ice cream. Ice cream is not typically recommended for individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) as it contains dairy, which can exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms in some people with lactose intolerance or dairy sensitivity. It may also be high in sugar, which can worsen IBS symptoms for some individuals.
Choice B rationale:
Honey. Honey is generally well-tolerated by individuals with IBS and can be used as a natural sweetener in moderation. However, it is not specifically recommended as a dietary inclusion for managing IBS symptoms.
Choice C rationale:
Watermelon. Watermelon is a low-fiber fruit that may be well-tolerated by some individuals with IBS, especially during periods of symptom flare-ups. However, it does not provide the beneficial probiotics and digestive enzymes found in yogurt, which can be helpful for some IBS patients.
Choice D rationale:
Yogurt. Yogurt, especially varieties containing live probiotic cultures, can be beneficial for individuals with IBS. Probiotics may help improve gut health and alleviate some gastrointestinal symptoms associated with IBS. It is often recommended as a dietary inclusion for those with IBS.
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