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?

A. Launder the child's clothing with fabric softener: Fabric softeners can contain chemicals and fragrances that may irritate the skin of a child with eczema. It's advisable to wash the child's clothing with a mild, fragrance-free detergent and avoid the use of fabric softeners.

B. Dress the child in woolen clothes during cold months: Wool can be irritating to sensitive skin and may exacerbate eczema symptoms. It's best to dress the child in soft, breathable fabrics such as cotton to minimize irritation.

C. Give the child bubble baths every day: Bubble baths can strip the skin of its natural oils and exacerbate eczema symptoms. It's recommended to limit baths to every other day or less frequently and to use lukewarm water without added bubbles or harsh soaps.

D. Apply a topical corticosteroid ointment to the affected area: This is the correct choice. Topical corticosteroids are commonly used to reduce inflammation and relieve itching associated with eczema. They help to control eczema flare-ups and manage symptoms effectively. However, it's important to follow the healthcare provider's instructions regarding the frequency and duration of corticosteroid use and to apply them only to the affected areas of the skin.

A. "I don't care about work anymore since I was not given a promotion":

This statement demonstrates the maladaptive use of regression. Regression involves reverting to an earlier stage of development in the face of unacceptable thoughts or impulses. In this case, the client's response to not receiving a promotion is to display a lack of interest in work, which can be seen as regressing to a less mature coping mechanism.

B. "I wrote a short story about a heroic woman when I was really mad at my boss."

This statement describes the defense mechanism of sublimation rather than regression. Sublimation involves channeling unacceptable impulses or emotions into more socially acceptable activities or behaviors. In this case, the client channels their anger into writing a short story, which is a constructive and creative outlet.

C. "I still cannot remember the scene of my husband's car accident":

This statement does not demonstrate regression. Instead, it suggests repression, which involves the unconscious blocking of unpleasant memories, thoughts, or feelings from conscious awareness. The client's inability to remember the scene of the accident may indicate repression as a defense mechanism.

D. "I mentally separate myself from distractions around me when I paint on canvas."

This statement describes the defense mechanism of dissociation rather than regression. Dissociation involves a disconnection between a person's thoughts, identity, consciousness, or memory. In this case, the client mentally separates themselves from distractions while painting, which is a form of dissociative coping.