A nurse at an urgent care center is caring for a client who sustained minor injuries during a street fight in which two of the client's friends were stabbing victims. The client tells the nurse that he doesn't remember anything that happened after he and his friends first saw the suspects in the stabbing. Which of the following defense mechanisms is the client demonstrating?

Involuntary commitment is a legal process where an individual is admitted to a psychiatric facility against their will due to a perceived risk of harm to themselves or others. The primary concern in involuntary commitment is the safety and well-being of the individual and those around them.

Therefore, it is important for the nurse to inform the client's family about the reason for the involuntary commitment, emphasizing that the client's behavior poses a threat to themselves or others.

incorrect:

A. "A psychiatrist determines that the client's behavior is irrational." This statement focuses on the client's behavior being irrational, which is not the primary criteria for involuntary commitment. It is more important to emphasize the potential harm the client may cause to themselves or others.

B. "The client is unable to manage the affairs necessary for daily life." While this may be a factor contributing to the need for psychiatric treatment, it is not the specific reason for involuntary commitment. The main concern is the risk of harm associated with the client's behavior.

D. "The client has been accused of breaking the law." Involuntary commitment is not based on accusations of breaking the law. It is primarily focused on the safety and well-being of the individual and the potential risk they pose to themselves or others.

Determining if the client has thoughts of self-harm: This is the priority action for the nurse in this situation. Assessing the client's risk of self-harm or suicide is crucial to determine the level of immediate intervention required. It helps identify the severity of the crisis and enables the nurse to implement appropriate measures to ensure the client's safety.

In the context of a client with generalized anxiety disorder who is exhibiting signs of distress and seeking to be taken care of, it is essential to assess for suicidal ideation or intent. Clients with mental health disorders, especially when experiencing high levels of stress, may be at an increased risk of self-harm or suicide. Therefore, it is vital for the nurse to prioritize the assessment of the client's safety and risk of self-harm in order to provide appropriate care and interventions.

Incorrect:

A- Asking the client to identify the cause of the crisis: While it is important to gather information about the cause of the crisis to understand the client's situation, it is not the nurse's priority at this moment. Assessing the client's safety and immediate risk of self-harm takes precedence.

C- Identifying if friends or family are available to help: While social support from friends and family can be valuable in managing a crisis, it is not the nurse's priority in this situation. The immediate concern is to assess the client's safety and risk of self-harm.

D-Identifying the client's coping skills: Assessing the client's coping skills is an important aspect of the overall assessment process, but it is not the priority at this moment. The nurse needs to first ensure the client's safety and address any immediate risks.