A nurse is admitting a client to an alcohol abuse program. The client states, "I'm here because of my boss.
It was part of my job to go to parties and drink with clients." The client's statement is an example of which of the following defense mechanisms?

Suppression.

Rationalization.

Reaction-formation.

Compensation.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

Choice A rationale:

Suppression involves the conscious, intentional effort to push unwanted thoughts, feelings, or memories out of awareness. It is not evident in the client's statement, as they are not actively trying to forget or avoid their alcohol use. Instead, they are attempting to justify it.

Choice B Rationale:

Rationalization is the defense mechanism most clearly demonstrated in the client's statement. It involves creating false but seemingly logical reasons to justify unacceptable behavior or feelings. The client is attributing their alcohol use to external factors (their boss and job requirements) rather than taking responsibility for their own choices and actions. This allows them to avoid confronting the reality of their addiction and the need for change.

Key characteristics of rationalization that align with the client's statement:

Externalizing blame: The client places responsibility for their drinking on their boss and job, rather than acknowledging their own agency.

Minimizing the problem: The client suggests that their drinking was merely a necessary part of their job, downplaying the extent of their alcohol use and its negative consequences.

Avoiding negative emotions: By shifting blame, the client protects themselves from feelings of guilt, shame, and responsibility associated with their addiction.

Choice C Rationale:

Reaction formation involves behaving in a way that is opposite to one's true feelings or impulses. This is not evident in the client's statement, as they are not expressing overly negative or critical attitudes towards alcohol. Instead, they are attempting to justify their use of it.

Choice D Rationale:

Compensation involves overemphasizing a desirable trait or behavior to make up for a perceived weakness or deficiency. This is not evident in the client's statement, as they are not highlighting any positive qualities or accomplishments to offset their alcohol use.

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Correct Answer is ["C","E","F"]

Explanation

Choice A: Giving opinion: While sharing your opinions might seem helpful, it can actually shut down communication and make the patient feel judged or invalidated. Therapeutic communication focuses on understanding the patient's perspective, not imposing your own views.

Choice B: Asking why: Asking "why" can often come across as accusatory or judgmental, putting the patient on the defensive and hindering open communication. Instead, use open-ended s or clarifying statements to encourage the patient to elaborate on their feelings and experiences.

Choice C: Silence: In some situations, silence can be a powerful tool. It can provide a safe space for the patient to process their emotions, gather their thoughts, or initiate conversation themselves. However, be sure to use silence actively, paying close attention to nonverbal cues and ensuring the patient feels comfortable with the pause.

Choice D: Change the subject: While there may be times when it's appropriate to redirect the conversation, abruptly changing the subject can leave the patient feeling unheard and dismissed. It's important to acknowledge the patient's concerns and validate their feelings before moving on to another topic.

Choice E: Reflecting: Reflecting involves rephrasing the patient's words or statements in a way that acknowledges and emphasizes their emotions and experiences. This helps the patient feel heard and understood, promoting trust and openness in the communication. For example, if a patient says "I feel so alone," you could reflect by saying "It sounds like you're feeling isolated and disconnected."

Choice F: Clarification: Clarifying statements are a helpful way to ensure you understand the patient correctly. This can involve repeating parts of what they said, summarizing their message, or asking for specific details. For example, if a patient says "I just can't take it anymore," you could clarify by saying "You mentioned you're feeling overwhelmed. Can you tell me more about what's been difficult for you?"

By utilizing techniques like silence, reflecting, and clarification, nurses can create a safe and supportive environment for their patients in the mental health unit, fostering therapeutic communication that promotes healing and recovery.

A. "I check any room I enter because the enemy is still after me and could be hiding anywhere." B. "I killed four enemy soldiers with my bare hands and saved my entire battalion." C. "In my dreams, all I can see are the wounded reaching out and trying to grab me." D. "My child was born with a birth defect due to an exposure I had overseas.".

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

The correct answer is choice c. “In my dreams, all I can see are the wounded reaching out and trying to grab me.”

Choice A rationale:

This statement indicates hypervigilance and paranoia, which can be symptoms of PTSD, but it is more indicative of a delusional disorder or severe anxiety.

Choice B rationale:

This statement reflects a possible delusion of grandeur or a coping mechanism to deal with trauma, but it does not directly indicate PTSD.

Choice C rationale:

This statement describes a recurring nightmare, which is a common symptom of PTSD. Individuals with PTSD often relive traumatic events through nightmares or flashbacks.

Choice D rationale:

This statement suggests a belief in a cause-and-effect relationship that may not be accurate. It could indicate guilt or a misunderstanding of the situation, but it is not a direct symptom of PTSD.

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A nurse is admitting a client to an alcohol abuse program. The client states, "I'm here because of my boss.It was part of my job to go to parties and drink with clients." The client's statement is an example of which of the following defense mechanisms?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The registered nurse in the mental health unit recognizes which as being good therapeutic communication techniques? Select all that apply.

Correct Answer is ["C","E","F"]

Explanation

A nurse is caring for a client who was involved in heavy combat and observed war casualties. The nurse should suspect that the client is suffering from posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) if the client makes which of the following statements?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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A nurse is admitting a client to an alcohol abuse program. The client states, "I'm here because of my boss.
It was part of my job to go to parties and drink with clients." The client's statement is an example of which of the following defense mechanisms?