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:

The nurse is demonstrating advocacy by contacting the provider to return and speak with the client when the client expresses a lack of understanding about their diagnosis. Advocacy involves promoting the client's best interests, ensuring they receive appropriate information and care, and facilitating communication between the client and the healthcare team to address their concerns and needs.

Choice B rationale:

Good manners, while important in nursing practice, do not capture the essence of the nurse's action in this scenario. The nurse's primary role is to advocate for the client's understanding and communication with the healthcare provider.

Choice C rationale:

Customer service is not the primary focus in this situation. While providing excellent customer service is important in healthcare, the nurse's primary responsibility is to ensure the client's understanding of their diagnosis and address any questions or concerns they may have.

Choice D rationale:

Kindness is a positive quality in nursing practice, but it does not fully encompass the nurse's role in this scenario. The nurse's primary responsibility is to advocate for the client's understanding and facilitate effective communication with the provider to address the client's concerns and questions.

Choice A rationale:

Asking, "What makes you think the staff is following you?" is a confrontational approach and may not be helpful in building rapport or addressing the client's paranoid beliefs. It can come across as dismissive and may exacerbate the client's anxiety.

Choice B rationale:

Telling the client, "The psychiatric staff is not FBI. They are here to help you," is a straightforward response but may not effectively address the client's concerns or build rapport. It does not acknowledge the client's feelings and may not be well-received.

Choice C rationale:

Asking, "Why do you feel the staff is the FBI?" is a more open-ended and therapeutic approach. It encourages the client to express their thoughts and feelings, providing an opportunity for the nurse to better understand the client's perspective.

Choice D rationale:

Saying, "This must be very frightening for you. Let's talk more about it," is the most empathetic and client-centered response. It acknowledges the client's emotions and offers support. It also opens the door for further discussion and therapeutic communication, allowing the nurse to explore the client's fears and concerns in a non-confrontational manner.