The parents of a young adult diagnosed with schizophrenia are providing care for the client in their home. During a home visit, the parents state, “it’s been so difficult taking care of our child. We need a break. But our child needs constant supervision.” Which would be appropriate for the nurse to suggest?

Choice A reason:
A predictable social environment is important for providing stability and security, which can contribute to a client’s overall well-being. However, according to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, physiological needs such as food and water must be met before higher-level needs like social stability can be addressed. Therefore, while important, a predictable social environment is not the immediate priority.
Choice B reason:
Adequate food is a fundamental physiological need according to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. Physiological needs are the most basic and must be satisfied before an individual can focus on higher-level needs such as safety, love, and self-esteem. Ensuring that the client has adequate food is essential for their survival and overall health, making it the top priority in the plan of care.
Choice C reason:
A positive self-image is associated with self-esteem needs, which are higher up in Maslow’s hierarchy. While fostering a positive self-image is important for a client’s mental health and well-being, it cannot be effectively addressed until basic physiological needs are met. Therefore, it is not the immediate priority in the plan of care.
Choice D reason:
Acceptance from family relates to the need for love and belonging, which is also higher up in Maslow’s hierarchy. While family acceptance is crucial for emotional support and social well-being, it is not as immediate a priority as ensuring that the client’s basic physiological needs, such as adequate food, are met first.

Choice A reason:
Regression involves reverting to an earlier stage of development in response to stress. This defense mechanism is not indicated by Jake’s inability to recall specific details about his mother’s death.
Choice B reason:
Projection involves attributing one’s own unacceptable thoughts, feelings, or flaws to others. This defense mechanism does not explain Jake’s inability to remember details about his mother’s death.
Choice C reason:
Repression is a defense mechanism where distressing memories, thoughts, or feelings are unconsciously pushed out of conscious awareness. Jake’s inability to recall how old he was or the year his mother died suggests that he may be repressing these painful memories.
Choice D reason:
Suppression is a conscious effort to push distressing thoughts or feelings out of awareness. Since Jake is unable to recall specific details, it is more likely that repression, an unconscious process, is at play.