A nurse is caring for a client who smokes and has lung cancer. The client reports, “I'm coughing because I have that cold that everyone has been getting.”
The nurse should identify that the client is using which of the following defense mechanisms?
Denial
Reaction formation
Sublimation
Suppression
The Correct Answer is A
Denial is a defense mechanism where an individual refuses to accept or acknowledge the existence of a problem or a reality that causes anxiety or distress. In this scenario, the client is denying that their coughing is related to their lung cancer, and instead attributing it to a common cold that everyone is getting. This denial may be a way for the client to avoid facing the reality of their illness and the potential consequences of smoking.
Option b, reaction formation, is a defense mechanism where an individual expresses feelings or behaviors that are the opposite of their true feelings to reduce anxiety.
Option c, sublimation, is a defense mechanism where an individual channels their unacceptable impulses into more acceptable or socially appropriate behaviors.
Option d, suppression, is a defense mechanism where an individual consciously pushes down or avoids their thoughts or feelings. None of these defense mechanisms are being exhibited in the scenario described.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
This response acknowledges the client's concerns and invites further discussion about their experience. The nurse can use this information to assess the severity and duration of the client's symptoms, as well as any potential triggers or stressors that may be contributing to their anxiety and inability to concentrate.
Option a "Have you talked to your friends about this yet?" may not be an appropriate response, as the client may need more professional support than what their friends can provide.
Option b "I have problems too, everybody has problems" may be dismissive of the client's concerns and may not help them feel heard or understood.
Option d "Have you talked to your parents about this yet?" may not be an appropriate response, as the client may not feel comfortable discussing their concerns with their parents or may need more professional support than what their parents can provide.
Option e "Why do you think you are so anxious?" may be seen as confrontational and may not help the client feel heard or understood.
Option f "It sounds like you're having a difficult time" acknowledges the client's concerns but does not invite further discussion or provide an opportunity for the nurse to gather more information.

Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","F","H"]
Explanation
a. Substance abuse disorder
b. Schizophrenia
c. Age greater than 55 years old
f. Male gender
h. Previous suicide attempt.
Option a. Substance abuse disorder can increase the risk of suicide because it can exacerbate underlying mental health conditions and impair judgment.
Option b. Schizophrenia is a mental health condition that can increase the risk of suicide due to symptoms such as delusions and hallucinations.
Option c. Age greater than 55 years old is a risk factor for suicide because older adults may experience social isolation, chronic health conditions, and loss of independence.
Option f. Male gender is a risk factor for suicide because men are more likely to die by suicide than women. Option h. Previous suicide attempt is a strong predictor of future suicide attempts and completed suicides. Option d. Female gender is not a known risk factor for suicide.
Option e. Being currently married is not a known risk factor for suicide. Option g. Having a bachelor’s degree is not a known risk factor for suicide.

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