A registered nurse cares for an older adult patient admitted for the treatment of depression. The health care provider prescribes an antianxiety medication today, but the dose is more than the usual adult dose. The nurse should:
Select one:

Schizophrenia is a severe mental illness associated with an increased risk of suicide. Individuals with schizophrenia are at a higher risk of suicide due to the presence of symptoms such as depression, hopelessness, and social isolation. Unemployment is also a risk factor for suicide as it can contribute to financial and social stress.

The other options do have some risk factors, but not as high as the individual in option c. Alcohol use and being independent-minded are not necessarily significant risk factors for suicide, and being active in church can be a protective factor. While depression is a significant risk factor for suicide, it is not the only factor, and having two best friends may be a protective factor. Diabetes, in and of itself, is not a risk factor for suicide.

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.