A nurse is caring for an adolescent on an inpatient mental health unit who is undergoing detoxification for a substance use disorder. He tells the nurse that he first began using illicit drugs when his parents wouldn't allow him to get a tattoo. Which of the following defense mechanisms is the client demonstrating?
Suppression
Intellectualization
Dissociation
Projection
The Correct Answer is D
Projection is a defense mechanism where an individual attributes their own thoughts, feelings, or impulses onto someone else. In this case, the client is attributing the cause of their drug use to their parents not allowing them to get a tattoo. By projecting their desire for a tattoo onto their parents' decision, the client is displacing their own feelings onto an external factor.
Incorrect:
A. Suppression: Suppression involves consciously pushing away or blocking unwanted thoughts, feelings, or impulses. The client's statement does not indicate an attempt to suppress any thoughts or emotions related to their drug use; instead, they are openly discussing the reason for their substance use.
B. Intellectualization: Intellectualization involves using excessive reasoning or logic to avoid acknowledging or experiencing associated emotions. The client's statement does not reflect intellectualization, as they are not overly relying on intellectual processes or attempting to detach themselves from the emotional aspects of their behavior.
C. Dissociation: Dissociation involves a temporary disconnection from thoughts, feelings, or memories to avoid emotional distress. The client's statement does not demonstrate dissociation, as they are connecting their drug use to a specific event and cause.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
This response acknowledges the client's subjective experience and validates their belief that the bracelet provides pain relief. It shows empathy and respect for the client's perspective without dismissing or challenging their belief.
Let's review the other options and explain why they are not the most appropriate responses:
A. "Why do you think the copper helps with your arthritis?" This response may come across as questioning or doubting the client's belief, which can be invalidating and may hinder the
nurse-client relationship.
B. "I think you should rely more on your medication therapy than on your bracelet." While it is important to emphasize evidence-based medical treatments, this response may be perceived as dismissive or confrontational. It is essential to maintain a supportive and collaborative approach.
D. "Believing objects have powers to make you feel better has no scientific basis." Although this statement is true in terms of scientific evidence, it may undermine the client's beliefs and create a sense of defensiveness or disagreement. It is more effective to maintain a respectful and non-judgmental attitude.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Involuntary commitment refers to the legal process by which an individual is admitted to a psychiatric facility for treatment against their will. The decision to involuntarily commit someone is typically based on the assessment that their behavior poses a risk of harm to themselves or others. Therefore, it is important for the nurse to inform the client's family that the reason for the involuntary commitment is the client's behavior being a threat to their own safety or the safety of others.
A."A psychiatrist determines that the client's behavior is irrational." This statement is incorrect because irrational behavior alone is not sufficient grounds for involuntary commitment.
Involuntary commitment is typically based on the assessment that the individual's behavior poses a risk of harm to themselves or others, rather than solely on the basis of irrational behavior.
B. "The client is unable to manage the affairs necessary for daily life." While the inability to manage daily affairs may be a factor considered in the overall assessment of a client's condition, it is not the sole criterion for involuntary commitment. Involuntary commitment is primarily focused on the risk of harm posed by the individual's behavior, rather than their ability to manage daily life tasks.
D. "The client has been accused of breaking the law." Accusations of breaking the law are not the basis for involuntary commitment. Involuntary commitment is based on the assessment that the individual's behavior presents a risk of harm to themselves or others. Legal issues are addressed separately through the legal system and are not directly related to the criteria for involuntary commitment.
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