During a group therapy session, a nurse notes several clients using multiple defense mechanisms. Which of the following client statements demonstrates the maladaptive use of regression?

Incorrect:

A. Developing autonomy:

Rationale: Developing autonomy typically involves a toddler's exploration of their environment and assertion of independence. While seeking comfort in familiar behaviors like thumb-sucking can be a part of autonomy development, the behavior described in the scenario is more indicative of regression, which involves returning to earlier, more infantile behaviors rather than progressing towards independence.

B. Regression:

Rationale: Regression refers to reverting to behaviors characteristic of an earlier stage of development. In this scenario, the toddler's behavior of sitting quietly in the corner of the crib and sucking her thumb, as well as turning away from the nurse, suggests a regression to earlier comforting behaviors that are typical of younger infants. This regression may be a response to the stress and anxiety of being hospitalized and separated from the mother, seeking comfort in familiar behaviors.

C. Resentment toward the mother:

Rationale: There is no evidence in the scenario to suggest resentment toward the mother. The toddler's behavior of seeking comfort in thumb-sucking and turning away from the nurse is more indicative of distress or regression in response to the hospitalization and separation from the mother rather than directed resentment toward her.

D. An anxiety reaction:

Rationale: The toddler's behavior of sitting quietly in the corner of the crib, sucking her thumb, and turning away from the nurse suggests a response to stress or anxiety rather than an anxiety reaction per se. While anxiety may be a component of the toddler's emotional state, the behavior aligns more closely with regression as a coping mechanism in response to the stressors of hospitalization and separation from the mother.

A. Withhold fluids until the client demonstrates a gag reflex: Withholding fluids until the gag reflex returns is not an appropriate intervention to prevent aspiration. The presence of a gag reflex does not guarantee the absence of aspiration risk. Additionally, depriving the client of fluids can lead to dehydration, which is not conducive to recovery.

B. Suction the nasopharynx as needed: This is the correct intervention to prevent aspiration in a client who is postoperative following anesthesia. Suctioning the nasopharynx helps remove secretions or blood that could obstruct the airway and lead to aspiration.

C. Perform chest physiotherapy: While chest physiotherapy may be beneficial for promoting lung expansion and clearing respiratory secretions, it is not specifically aimed at preventing aspiration. This intervention is more commonly used to manage conditions such as pneumonia or cystic fibrosis.

D. Place a bedside humidifier at the head of the client's bed: Using a bedside humidifier may help maintain airway moisture, but it does not directly address the risk of aspiration. While it can be a comfort measure, it is not a primary intervention for preventing aspiration in a postoperative client.