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?

Leaving the child's room exactly as it was before the loss suggests that the client is unable to accept and adapt to the reality of the child's death. This behavior can be considered maladaptive because it hinders the process of mourning and moving forward. It may reflect a difficulty in accepting the loss and adjusting to life without the child.

The other actions mentioned in the options are not necessarily indicative of maladaptive grieving:

B. Visiting the child's grave every week: Visiting the child's grave can be a normal part of the grieving process for some individuals. It provides an opportunity for the client to remember and honor the child's memory.

C. Talking about the child in the past tense: It is common for individuals to talk about a deceased loved one in the past tense. This does not necessarily indicate maladaptive grieving. It is a way of acknowledging the loss and recognizing that the person is no longer physically present.

D. Volunteering at a local children's hospital: Engaging in volunteer work can be a positive coping mechanism for individuals who have experienced a loss. It allows them to find meaning, connection, and a sense of purpose through helping others.

The statement "Providers are required to warn individuals if the client threatens harm" demonstrates an understanding of the legal exception known as the duty to warn or protect. It means that if a client expresses an intent to harm themselves or others, healthcare providers have a legal obligation to take appropriate actions, which may include notifying potential victims or authorities.

Incorrect:

1. "The legal requirement for client confidentiality does not apply if the client is deceased." - This statement is incorrect. Client confidentiality extends even after a client's death, and healthcare professionals are still expected to maintain confidentiality regarding the client's health information.
2. "Staff members are required to divulge information regarding a client's hospitalization to a client's employer." - This statement is incorrect. Healthcare professionals are required to maintain client confidentiality and cannot disclose a client's health information to their employer without the client's explicit consent or as mandated by specific legal requirements.
3. "Healthcare workers can use client confidentiality for their own legal defense." - This statement is incorrect. Client confidentiality is meant to protect the client's privacy and
maintain trust. It cannot be used by healthcare workers as a defense mechanism in legal matters.