A nurse is caring for an adolescent who states, "I failed my math exam because the teacher doesn't like athletes." The nurse should identify that the adolescent is using which of the following defense mechanisms?

Choice A rationale:

Restlessness is a common indicator of unrelieved pain in a client. It suggests that the client is uncomfortable and experiencing discomfort, which could be due to inadequate pain relief. Restlessness may manifest as frequent shifting, fidgeting, and an inability to find a comfortable position. Therefore, choice A is the correct answer as it is a reliable indicator of unrelieved pain.

Choice B rationale:

Urinary retention is not typically associated with unrelieved pain in a client with a spinal epidural for a herniated disc. Urinary retention may result from the effects of the epidural anesthesia itself but is not a specific indicator of unrelieved pain. Therefore, choice B is not the correct answer.

Choice C rationale:

Constipation is not a direct indicator of unrelieved pain related to a spinal epidural. Constipation can occur for various reasons, including medications, decreased mobility, and dietary factors. While pain may contribute to constipation indirectly, it is not a reliable and specific sign of unrelieved pain in this context. Therefore, choice C is not the correct answer.

Choice D rationale:

Difficulty swallowing is not typically associated with unrelieved pain related to a spinal epidural. It may be related to other factors, such as muscle weakness or neurological issues, but it is not a specific indicator of unrelieved pain in this situation. Therefore, choice D is not the correct answer.

Choice A rationale:

Rigid abdomen. A rigid abdomen is not typically associated with placenta previa. Placenta previa is a condition in which the placenta partially or completely covers the cervix, and it is more likely to present with painless vaginal bleeding rather than abdominal rigidity.

Choice B rationale:

Persistent uterine contractions. Persistent uterine contractions are not a characteristic finding in placenta previa. In fact, uterine contractions can be concerning in the presence of placenta previa as they may increase the risk of bleeding.

Choice C rationale:

Bright red vaginal bleeding. Bright red vaginal bleeding is a common and hallmark symptom of placenta previa. This bleeding typically occurs without pain and can be intermittent or continuous. It is essential to recognize this symptom promptly because it can lead to significant maternal and fetal complications.

Choice D rationale:

Increased fetal movement. Increased fetal movement is not a typical finding in placenta previa. The presence or absence of fetal movement should always be monitored during pregnancy, but it is not a specific indicator of placenta previa.