a nurse is caring for a patient who states, “I did not take my medication because my partner forgot to remind me.”. The nurse should identify that the patient is demonstrating which of the following defense mechanisms?

Choice A rationale
Academic pressure is a psychological stressor, not a physiological one. It involves mental or emotional strain or tension resulting from adverse or demanding circumstances, in this case, related to academic performance.
Choice B rationale
A burn injury is an example of a physiological stressor. Physiological stressors are related to physical or biological factors that strain the body’s resources. A burn injury places physical stress on the body as it tries to heal and recover.
Choice C rationale
Financial difficulties are a type of environmental stressor, not a physiological one. They involve external factors in a person’s environment that cause stress, such as financial problems or jobrelated stress.
Choice D rationale
A change in marital status is a type of psychosocial stressor, not a physiological one. It involves both psychological factors (such as emotions and behavior) and social factors (such as relationships and social interactions).

Choice A rationale
While palliative care can indeed help improve a patient’s quality of life, it is not typically aimed at curing the disease or significantly prolonging life. Instead, the focus is on managing symptoms and improving comfort. Therefore, the statement “This treatment should help me live a little longer and give me hope for a cure” does not accurately reflect the goals of palliative care.
Choice B rationale
The statement “I will continue my strict dietary plan” does not necessarily indicate an understanding of palliative care. While maintaining good nutrition can be an important part of managing some conditions, palliative care is more focused on symptom management and improving quality of life. Strict dietary restrictions may not be necessary or beneficial in a palliative care context.
Choice C rationale
The statement “I am hoping this will limit my discomfort and give me the best quality of life for me” accurately reflects the goals of palliative care. Palliative care aims to manage symptoms, including pain and discomfort, and to improve the patient’s quality of life.
Choice D rationale
The statement “This is not working and I plan to stop treatment” does not necessarily reflect an understanding of palliative care. While a patient has the right to stop treatment at any time, this decision should be based on a thorough understanding of their condition and the potential benefits and drawbacks of continuing or discontinuing treatment.