A nurse is caring for a client who has a new diagnosis of metastatic lung cancer. The client states, "I can't think about that until after my first grandchild is born next week." The nurse should identify the client's statement as indicating the maladaptive use of which of the following defense mechanisms?

Suppression

Regression

Compensation

Sublimation

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

A. Suppression:
Suppression is a psychological defense mechanism where an individual consciously avoids thinking about certain thoughts, emotions, or impulses. It involves intentionally putting aside disturbing or anxiety-inducing thoughts temporarily. People use suppression as a way to cope with overwhelming emotions or stressful situations by delaying dealing with them until they feel more prepared.

B. Regression:
Regression is a defense mechanism where an individual reverts to a previous stage of development in the face of stressful situations. For example, an adult may exhibit childlike behaviors or emotions during times of high stress. This regression is an unconscious way of seeking comfort and security from an earlier, less stressful time in life.

C. Compensation:
Compensation is a defense mechanism in which an individual tries to make up for a perceived deficiency in one area by excelling in another. For instance, someone who feels unattractive might compensate by becoming exceptionally skilled in a particular talent. Compensation involves overachieving in one area to cover up feelings of inadequacy in another.

D. Sublimation:
Sublimation is a defense mechanism where socially unacceptable impulses or urges are channeled into socially acceptable and productive activities. For example, someone with aggressive tendencies might channel their aggression into sports or artistic pursuits. Sublimation involves transforming negative emotions or desires into positive, socially acceptable behaviors.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Reaction Formation:
Reaction formation is a defense mechanism where an individual expresses feelings or behaviors that are the opposite of their true feelings or impulses. For example, someone who harbors unconscious aggressive feelings might display exaggerated friendliness and kindness. In the given scenario, the behavior of the newly licensed nurse is not contradictory to their true feelings; they are imitating the charge nurse willingly.

B. Suppression:
Suppression is a conscious effort to push down or hide certain thoughts or feelings. Unlike repression (which is unconscious), suppression involves a deliberate choice not to think about or dwell on certain emotions or thoughts. In the scenario, the behavior of the newly licensed nurse is not an example of suppression because they are not consciously trying to hide their actions.

C. Identification:
Identification is a defense mechanism where an individual unconsciously models their behavior, feelings, or attitudes after those of someone else, especially someone they perceive as powerful or significant. In this scenario, the newly licensed nurse is imitating the behaviors of the charge nurse, which is an example of identification.

D. Compensation:
Compensation is a defense mechanism where an individual consciously or unconsciously covers up weaknesses, frustrations, or feelings of inadequacy by emphasizing strengths or seeking to excel in other areas. It involves making up for a perceived lack by putting extra effort into another aspect of life. The scenario does not describe the newly licensed nurse compensating for any perceived weakness; they are simply imitating the charge nurse's behavior.

A. Initiates social interactions with caregivers B. Meets own needs without manipulating others C. Changes behavior as a result of peer pressure D. Acknowledges that his delusions are not real

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Initiates social interactions with caregivers:One of the key goals for adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is to improve social skills and interactions. Encouraging the adolescent to initiate social interactions is a positive and realistic outcome that promotes social development and enhances communication skills.

B. Meets own needs without manipulating others:While fostering independence and self-advocacy is important, adolescents with ASD may struggle with understanding social cues and may not manipulate others in a typical sense. This outcome may not be as relevant or achievable for the individual with ASD.

C. Changes behavior as a result of peer pressure:Adolescents with ASD may have difficulty understanding and responding to peer pressure in the same way as their neurotypical peers. This outcome may not be appropriate or realistic for someone with ASD, as it can lead to increased anxiety or discomfort.

D. Acknowledges that his delusions are not real:This outcome is more relevant to conditions such as schizophrenia or severe psychotic disorders, rather than ASD. Adolescents with autism may experience different cognitive challenges but generally do not have delusions in the way that individuals with psychotic disorders do.

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Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A charge nurse is orienting a newly licensed nurse and observes the newly licensed nurse imitating her behaviors. The nurse should recognize this behavior as which of the following defense mechanisms?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A nurse is planning care for an adolescent who has autism spectrum disorder. Which of the following outcomes should the nurse include in the plan of care?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A nurse is caring for a client who has bipolar disorder and is experiencing a manic episode. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A nurse in a community health facility is interviewing a client who recently lost his job. The client states. "I was fired because my boss doesn't like me." Which of the following defense mechanisms is the client displaying?

A nurse is leading a critical incident stress debriefing with a group of staff members following a mass trauma Incident. Which of the following interventions should the nurse take first?

A nurse is planning care for a client who has adjustment disorder following a traumatic below-the-knee amputation. Which of the following actions should the nurse include?

A nurse in a long-term care facility is assessing an older adult client for depression. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

A nurse is preparing to administer medications to a newly admitted client who has schizophrenia and is experiencing psychosis. Which of the following medications should the nurse plan to administer?

A nurse is caring for a client who is prescribed massage therapy to treat panic disorder. The client states, "I can't stand to be touched by another person." Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

A nurse in an acute care mental health facility is creating a plan of care for a newly admitted client. Which of the following interventions should the nurse plan to include in the working phase of the nurse-client relationship?