A nurse is caring for a client who is participating in a therapy session for anger management. The client states that their recent behavior is due to the loss of their job. The nurse should identify that the client is using which of the following defense mechanisms?
Projection
Rationalization
Repression
Sublimation
The Correct Answer is B
b. Rationalization
Explanation:
The correct answer is b. Rationalization.
Rationalization is a defense mechanism characterized by the individual's atempt to justify or explain their behavior or actions in a way that makes it more acceptable to themselves or others. It involves providing logical-sounding reasons or excuses to mask or minimize the real underlying reasons for their behavior.
In this scenario, the client is atributing their recent behavior to the loss of their job, using it as a justification or explanation for their actions. By blaming the job loss, they are rationalizing their behavior as a direct result of the circumstances they faced.
Option a, Projection, involves atributing one's own unacceptable thoughts, feelings, or behaviors to others.
This defense mechanism does not apply to the client's statement about their job loss.
Option c, Repression, involves the unconscious blocking of unwanted thoughts or feelings. It does not relate to the client's behavior or their explanation for it.
Option d, Sublimation, is a defense mechanism where an individual channels or redirects unacceptable impulses or emotions into socially acceptable behaviors or activities. It is not applicable in this context since the client is not expressing their emotions or impulses through alternative constructive means.
By identifying the client's explanation as rationalization, the nurse recognizes the defense mechanism being used and gains insight into how the client is coping with their emotions and justifying their behavior in response to the job loss. This understanding can guide the nurse in providing appropriate support and interventions to help the client manage their anger more effectively.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer and explanation is:
c. Denial
The nurse should identify that the client is experiencing the stage of denial in the grief process. Denial is a common psychological defense mechanism that individuals may exhibit when faced with a stressful or overwhelming situation, such as the prospect of open heart surgery. It involves a refusal to accept or acknowledge the reality of the situation. In this case, the client's statement of being confident to go home shortly after surgery demonstrates a denial of the potential challenges and recovery process associated with such a procedure.
Explanation for the other options:
A . Anger: Anger is a stage of grief characterized by feelings of resentment, frustration, and hostility. It is common for individuals to experience anger as part of the grief process, but the client's statement does not indicate anger.
B. Depression: Depression is another stage of grief marked by feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss. While it is normal for individuals to experience some level of anxiety or sadness before undergoing surgery, the client's statement does not specifically reflect depression.
d. Acceptance: Acceptance is the final stage of grief, where individuals come to terms with their situation and find a sense of peace or resolution. The client's statement indicates a lack of acceptance as they are denying the potential impact of the surgery and its recovery process.

Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Restlessness is a common sign that a client's pain is not adequately relieved. When a client experience unrelieved pain, they may find it difficult to get comfortable and may exhibit restlessness, such as frequently changing positions, fidgeting, or appearing agitated. It is important for the nurse to assess the client's pain level and address any concerns regarding pain management.
While difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), constipation, and urinary retention can be potential side effects or complications associated with spinal epidural anesthesia, they are not specific indicators of unrelieved pain. These findings may be related to the effects of the anesthesia itself or other factors, and they should still be assessed and addressed by the nurse. However, restlessness is more directly linked to the experience of pain and should be recognized as an important sign that the client's pain relief measures may need adjustment.

Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
