When the patient who overeats insists that weight gain is related to retained fluids, the nurse recognizes the patient is using which defense mechanism?
Compensation
Rationalization
Regression
Projection
The Correct Answer is B
A. Compensation involves offsetting perceived deficiencies by excelling in other areas. The patient claiming weight gain is due to fluid retention is not trying to make up for a perceived weakness or deficiency; instead, they are explaining their behavior in a way that deflects responsibility.
B. Rationalization is a defense mechanism where a person provides logical or reasonable-sounding explanations for behaviors or situations that are actually motivated by irrational or emotional factors. In this case, the patient who overeats is rationalizing their weight gain by attributing it to fluid retention rather than addressing the underlying issue of overeating. This allows them to avoid facing the real cause of their weight gain.
C. Regression involves reverting to earlier stages of development or behavior when faced with stress. For instance, an adult might act childishly when under pressure. The patient in this scenario is not behaving in a more immature or childlike manner but is rather giving an excuse for their behavior.
D. Projection involves attributing one's own undesirable thoughts or feelings to others. For example, someone who is untrustworthy might accuse others of being untrustworthy. The patient in this scenario is not attributing their own issues to others but is offering an excuse for their own behavior.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. A history of a brain tumor does not automatically exclude a person from ECT, but it requires careful consideration and evaluation. It would be essential to conduct a thorough assessment, including imaging studies and consultations with specialists, to ensure that ECT would be safe and appropriate in this context.
B. This option is a strong candidate for ECT. ECT is particularly effective for individuals with severe, treatment-resistant depression, especially when other interventions such as medication and psychotherapy have not been successful. ECT is often considered when depression is severe, persistent, and significantly impairs functioning or poses a risk to life.
C. ECT is generally not indicated for mild depression. The treatment is typically reserved for more severe cases where other forms of treatment have failed or when rapid response is necessary. Mild depression can often be managed effectively with psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of both, without the need for ECT.
D. While ECT can be considered for individuals with severe depression and underlying medical conditions, congestive heart failure (CHF) adds a layer of complexity. However, ECT can still be considered if the potential benefits outweigh the risks, and if the patient is carefully monitored and managed by a multidisciplinary team.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Antihypertensives are medications used to manage high blood pressure. Alprazolam is not used for managing blood pressure and does not belong to this category.
B. Antipsychotics are medications used to treat psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Alprazolam is not used to treat psychosis and does not fall under this category.
C. Antidepressants are used to treat depression and include classes such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs). Alprazolam is not used primarily to treat depression and is not classified as an antidepressant.
D. Alprazolam is classified as a benzodiazepine. Benzodiazepines are a class of medications that work by enhancing the effect of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, leading to sedative, anxiolytic (anti-anxiety), muscle relaxant, and anticonvulsant effects.
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