A nurse is leading a therapy session for a group of adolescent clients. Which of the following statements should the nurse identify as an adaptive use of ego defense mechanisms?

A. "Talking about the traumatic experience is recommended."
This statement is generally correct. Many therapeutic approaches for PTSD, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure therapy, involve talking about the traumatic experience in a controlled and supportive environment. However, the timing and method of discussing the trauma should be guided by a mental health professional.

B. "Response prevention is an effective treatment for PTSD."
This statement is incorrect. Response prevention is a therapeutic technique often used in the treatment of anxiety disorders like obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). It involves preventing the usual response to a trigger. However, for PTSD, exposure therapy, cognitive restructuring, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) are more common therapeutic approaches.

C. "You should try to limit the number of hours that you sleep each day."
This statement is incorrect. Adequate sleep is crucial for overall mental and physical health, and disrupting sleep patterns can worsen symptoms of PTSD. Sleep disturbances are common in PTSD, and part of managing the disorder often involves addressing sleep problems.

D. "Avoiding stimuli that trigger memories of the trauma can help you overcome your PTSD."
This statement is generally correct. Avoiding triggers that bring back memories of the trauma is a common coping strategy. However, while avoidance might provide short-term relief, it's not a long-term solution. Evidence-based therapies often involve confronting and processing these triggers in a safe and controlled way, under the guidance of a therapist.

A. Prepare the client for electroconvulsive therapy:
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is not a standard or appropriate treatment for anorexia nervosa. ECT is primarily used for severe depression, bipolar disorder, and certain other mental health conditions. Anorexia nervosa is typically managed through psychotherapy, nutritional counseling, and medical monitoring, often in an outpatient or inpatient setting, depending on the severity of the disorder.

B. Weigh the client twice per day:
Frequent weighing is generally discouraged in the treatment of anorexia nervosa. Individuals with this disorder often have an unhealthy fixation on their weight. Frequent weigh-ins can exacerbate anxiety, foster an unhealthy relationship with food and body image, and reinforce obsessive thoughts about weight and appearance. Healthcare providers should monitor weight and nutritional status regularly, but the frequency should be determined based on the individual's specific needs and in a manner that does not worsen their anxiety.

C. Encourage the client to participate in family therapy:
This is the appropriate choice. Family therapy is often a crucial component of the treatment plan for anorexia nervosa. It helps address family dynamics, communication patterns, and any dysfunctional relationships that might contribute to the eating disorder. Family therapy provides a supportive environment for both the individual with anorexia and their family members, aiding in understanding, coping, and healing.

D. Set a weight gain goal of 2.2 kg (4.9 lb) per week:
Setting specific weight gain goals can be counterproductive and potentially harmful for individuals with anorexia nervosa. Rapid or arbitrary weight gain goals may lead to unhealthy eating behaviors, excessive exercise, or other dangerous practices in an attempt to meet the goal quickly. Instead, healthcare providers focus on a more individualized and gradual approach to weight restoration, ensuring that it is safe, sustainable, and in line with the client's overall health and well-being.