A nurse is caring for a client who has bipolar disorder.
The client yells at the nurse whenever medication changes are prescribed by the client's provider.
The nurse should identify that the client is using which of the following defense mechanisms?
Displacement.
Splitting.
Sublimation.
Conversion.
The Correct Answer is A
The correct answer is: a. Displacement.
Choice A Reason: Displacement is a defense mechanism where a person redirects a negative emotion from its original source to a less threatening recipient. In the context of bipolar disorder, a client may displace anger or frustration about their condition or treatment onto the nurse, who is not the source of these feelings. This redirection can occur because the client might feel powerless or uncomfortable expressing these emotions towards their healthcare provider, who is the authority figure prescribing medication changes.
Choice B Reason: Splitting is often associated with borderline personality disorder rather than bipolar disorder. It involves viewing things in extremes—either all good or all bad—with no middle ground. While individuals with bipolar disorder can exhibit black-and-white thinking, especially during mood episodes, the behavior described does not indicate splitting, as it does not involve idealizing or devaluing the nurse or provider.
Choice C Reason: Sublimation is a mature defense mechanism where socially unacceptable impulses or idealizations are unconsciously transformed into socially acceptable actions or behavior, often resulting in a long-term conversion of the initial impulse. For example, a person with aggressive tendencies might take up a sport that channels aggression in a socially acceptable way. The scenario provided does not suggest that the client is channeling their frustrations into a constructive activity.
Choice D Reason: Conversion involves the transfer of mental stress into physical symptoms. This defense mechanism is characteristic of conversion disorder, where psychological stress manifests as neurological symptoms like blindness, paralysis, or other sensory or motor symptoms without a medical cause. The client yelling at the nurse does not reflect a conversion of emotional distress into physical symptoms.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Attending a support group to seek help and guidance for handling difficulties indicates the client's acceptance of having a new ileostomy. It demonstrates a proactive approach to coping with the challenges associated with living with an ileostomy.
Choice B rationale:
Having a partner empty the bag for the client to avoid looking at it may indicate avoidance or denial rather than acceptance. While support from a partner is essential, it's also important for the client to actively participate in self-care and adaptation.
Choice C rationale:
Looking forward to having normal bowel movements again may indicate a lack of acceptance or unrealistic expectations since having an ileostomy means a change in bowel function. The client should be educated about the permanence of the ileostomy.
Choice D rationale:
Wishing for a return to the pre-ileostomy sexual relationship may indicate difficulty accepting the changes in body image and function that come with an ileostomy. It may also suggest unrealistic expectations. The client should be encouraged to seek support and counseling for body image issues and sexual concerns.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Informing the client that the procedure will take 60 minutes is not a critical action before an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) The duration of the procedure may vary, but this information is not as essential as other pre-procedure considerations.
Choice B rationale:
The correct action is to "Ensure that the client gave informed consent." Before any invasive procedure like an EGD, it is crucial to confirm that the client has provided informed consent. This ensures that the client understands the procedure, its risks, and benefits, and has the opportunity to ask questions and make an informed decision.
Choice C rationale:
Administering an oral contrast solution is not typically done before an EGD. An EGD involves the insertion of a flexible scope through the mouth into the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum to visualize these structures. Contrast solutions are usually used in other imaging procedures, such as barium swallow studies.
Choice D rationale:
Ensuring that the client's bladder is full is not necessary for an EGD. This requirement may be relevant for other imaging studies, but it does not apply to this procedure. The focus should be on the client's comfort, safety, and informed consent before the EGD.
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