A nurse is counseling a client for the management of anxiety. The client is consistently late for appointments and ignores household chores. The client states, "I'm just too stressed. I need someone to take care of me." The nurse identifies this behavior as an example of which of the following defense mechanisms?
Repression
Introjection
Dissociation
Regression
The Correct Answer is D
A. Repression: Repression involves unconsciously pushing unwanted thoughts, memories, or feelings out of conscious awareness. It involves burying distressing emotions or memories deep in the unconscious mind to avoid dealing with them consciously. In this scenario, the client's behavior does not suggest the repression of any specific thoughts or memories but rather a coping mechanism related to their current stress and anxiety.
B. Introjection: Introjection occurs when an individual internalizes the values, beliefs, or attitudes of others as if they were their own. It involves incorporating external standards or influences into one's own identity. While introjection may contribute to the client's behavior indirectly by influencing their beliefs about needing external support, the primary defense mechanism at play in this scenario is regression.
C. Dissociation: Dissociation involves a disruption in the integration of consciousness, memory, identity, or perception of the environment. It often manifests as a detachment from reality or a sense of being disconnected from oneself or the surrounding environment. While dissociation may occur in response to severe stress or trauma, it typically involves more extreme symptoms than those described by the client in this scenario.
D. Regression: Regression involves reverting to earlier, less mature behaviors or stages of development in response to stress or anxiety. It reflects a retreat to a more comfortable or familiar state in an attempt to cope with overwhelming emotions or situations. In this scenario, the client's statement about needing someone to take care of them suggests a desire to return to a state of dependency, which is characteristic of regression as a defense mechanism.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "You have a great deal to live for."
While this response is supportive and positive, it may not effectively address the client's feelings of worthlessness. It may come across as dismissive or invalidating of the client's emotions.
B. "It's not unusual for depressed people to feel that way."
This response acknowledges the commonality of feeling worthless among individuals with depression. While it normalizes the client's experience, it doesn't directly address the client's statement or offer support.
C. "You've been feeling that your life has no meaning."
This response reflects active listening and demonstrates empathy by paraphrasing the client's statement to show understanding. It acknowledges the client's feelings and opens the door for further exploration of the underlying issues contributing to their sense of worthlessness.
D. "Why do you feel you are worthless?"
While this response seeks to explore the underlying reasons for the client's feelings, it may come across as confrontational or judgmental. It puts the client on the spot to justify their emotions, which could make them feel defensive or invalidated.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Place a heated fan at the bedside to facilitate drying: Using a heated fan can increase the risk of burns to the child's skin underneath the cast. The drying process for a cast should occur naturally, and artificial heat sources should not be used.
B. Support the casted arm with a firm grasp: While it's important to support the child's arm during the casting procedure, doing so with a firm grasp may not be necessary or appropriate. The nurse should follow the orthopedic surgeon's instructions regarding the positioning and support of the arm during casting.
C. Tell the child, "This will make your arm feel better": This statement may not accurately reflect the purpose of the cast, as casting is typically done to immobilize and protect the injured limb during the healing process. It's important to provide developmentally appropriate explanations to children about medical procedures, but this particular statement may not be helpful or accurate in this context.
D. Wrap the arm of the child's doll or toy prior to the procedure: This action helps familiarize the child with the procedure and can serve as a form of therapeutic play. By involving the child's toy or doll, the nurse can help reduce anxiety and fear associated with the casting procedure. It also provides an opportunity for the child to understand what will happen to their own arm, promoting a sense of familiarity and control over the situation.
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