A nurse on a mental health unit is participating in a community meeting with a group of clients. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Regression is a defense mechanism that involves reverting to an earlier stage of development or behaving in a way that is characteristic of an earlier developmental level in response to stress or anxiety. It is a way for individuals to cope with overwhelming emotions or situations by retreating to a previous, more comfortable state.

In the scenario described, the client's behavior of consistently being late for appointments and ignoring household chores while expressing the need to be taken care of indicates a regressive response to stress. By relying on others to take care of their responsibilities, the client is seeking a sense of security and support, similar to how they may have relied on others in the past, such as during childhood.

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A- Repression involves the unconscious blocking of unacceptable thoughts or impulses from conscious awareness.

B- Introjection is the internalization of values or qualities of another person or group.

C- Dissociation is a defense mechanism that involves detaching oneself from reality or the present moment to avoid emotional distress.

From the given information, the nurse should include the following interventions in the plan of care for the client with dementia:
● Obtain client's weight weekly: Regular weight monitoring helps assess the client's nutritional status and detect any significant changes that may require intervention.
● Offer the client finger foods for meals: Finger foods can be easier for the client to handle and consume independently, promoting independence and self-feeding.
● Encourage the client to take deep breaths when feeling agitated: Deep breathing exercises can help the client manage their agitation and promote relaxation.
● Assess client's memory every shift: Regular assessment of the client's memory allows for monitoring any changes or decline, which helps in planning appropriate interventions and providing necessary support.
The following interventions should be avoided:

● Speak loudly when addressing the client: Speaking loudly may cause confusion or agitation in the client. Instead, it is recommended to use a calm and reassuring tone of voice.
● Give long tasks at a time to the client: Clients with dementia often have difficulty with concentration and memory. Providing long tasks may overwhelm them and contribute to their frustration. Breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps is more appropriate.

● Turn the client's TV on at night when they are unable to sleep: It is generally recommended to create a quiet and calming environment for sleep. The TV may interfere with the client's sleep and contribute to increased agitation or confusion.