A nurse is caring for a client who has generalized anxiety disorder. The client is consistently late for appointments and ignores household chores. The client states, "I'm just too stressed. I need to be taken care of. The nurse should identify this behavior as the maladaptive use of which of the following defense mechanisms?

This response is an appropriate nursing response in this situation. It acknowledges the client's need for assistance with grocery shopping while also recognizing that shopping and personal errands are not within the nurse's job description. By suggesting to explore other resources, the nurse can help the client find alternative solutions to meet their needs. This response demonstrates a willingness to support the client and collaborate on finding appropriate assistance, while also maintaining professional boundaries and responsibilities.

A. "I won't be able to shop for you today because I have to get home to my family." This response is inappropriate because it focuses on the nurse's personal circumstances and may come across as dismissive of the client's request for help. It does not address the client's needs or offer any alternative solutions.

B. "What I think you should do is wait for the days when you feel better and do your grocery shopping then." This response is dismissive of the client's current situation and does not offer any practical assistance or support. It implies that the client should simply wait for their condition to improve without addressing their immediate needs.

D. "I would be happy to do whatever I can to help you." While this response may initially seem supportive, it is inappropriate because shopping and performing personal errands for the client are not within the nurse's job description. It is important for the nurse to establish professional boundaries and adhere to the responsibilities outlined in their job description.

It is essential for the nurse's safety and well-being to remove themselves from a situation where the client is exhibiting verbally abusive behavior. Leaving the room allows the nurse to distance themselves from the confrontational environment and ensures their physical and emotional safety. Continuing to engage with the client may escalate the situation further and put the nurse at risk.

Incorrect:

B. Maintain eye contact until the behavior stops: Maintaining eye contact may be perceived as confrontational or provocative, which can further escalate the situation. It is advisable for the nurse to disengage from the client's presence to avoid potential harm.

C. Tell the client her behavior is disappointing: Engaging in a confrontational or judgmental response can exacerbate the client's anger or aggression. It is important for the nurse to maintain a professional and therapeutic approach while ensuring personal safety.

D. Punish the client for the behavior: Punishment is not an appropriate response to verbally abusive behavior. It can damage the nurse-client relationship and potentially worsen the client's emotional state. Promoting a supportive and therapeutic environment is key in managing challenging behaviors.