A nurse is caring for a client who smokes and has lung cancer. The client reports, “I'm coughing because I have that cold that everyone has been getting.”
The nurse should identify that the client is using which of the following defense mechanisms?
Denial
Reaction formation
Sublimation
Suppression
The Correct Answer is A
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.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Agoraphobia is an anxiety disorder characterized by the fear or avoidance of situations or places where escape might be difficult or help may not be available in the event of a panic attack or other distressing symptom. Individuals with agoraphobia may have intense anxiety or panic symptoms in places such as crowded areas, enclosed spaces, public transportation, open spaces, or places far away from home.
Option b refers to social anxiety disorder.
Option c refers to specific phobia.
Option d refers to obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Correct Answer is B
Explanation
This statement clearly and accurately conveys the client's complaint of being raped by her date.
Option a uses colloquial language and may not accurately convey the severity and trauma of the situation.
Option c uses vague language that does not clearly state the nature of the incident.
Option d uses subjective language that may not be helpful for accurately documenting the client's complaint.
It's important for healthcare providers to use appropriate language when documenting sensitive situations like sexual assault to ensure clear communication among the healthcare team and accurate documentation for legal and forensic purposes.
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