When the patient who overeats insists that weight gain is related to retained fluids, the nurse recognizes the patient is using which defense mechanism?

Compensation

Rationalization

Regression

Projection

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A.   Compensation involves offsetting perceived deficiencies by excelling in other areas. The patient claiming weight gain is due to fluid retention is not trying to make up for a perceived weakness or deficiency; instead, they are explaining their behavior in a way that deflects responsibility.
B.   Rationalization is a defense mechanism where a person provides logical or reasonable-sounding explanations for behaviors or situations that are actually motivated by irrational or emotional factors. In this case, the patient who overeats is rationalizing their weight gain by attributing it to fluid retention rather than addressing the underlying issue of overeating. This allows them to avoid facing the real cause of their weight gain.
C.   Regression involves reverting to earlier stages of development or behavior when faced with stress. For instance, an adult might act childishly when under pressure. The patient in this scenario is not behaving in a more immature or childlike manner but is rather giving an excuse for their behavior.
D.   Projection involves attributing one's own undesirable thoughts or feelings to others. For example, someone who is untrustworthy might accuse others of being untrustworthy. The patient in this scenario is not attributing their own issues to others but is offering an excuse for their own behavior.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Projection involves attributing one’s own unacceptable feelings or thoughts onto another person. However, in this case, the patient’s tantrum and crying are more about their own inability to handle the refusal rather than projecting feelings onto others.
B. Repression is a defense mechanism where distressing thoughts or feelings are unconsciously blocked from entering awareness. For instance, if the patient were to push aside their feelings of disappointment about not receiving the diet pills without expressing them, that would be repression.
C. Denial involves refusing to accept reality or facts that are distressing or threatening. However, the primary behavior in this situation is the tantrum and crying, which are more indicative of another defense mechanism rather than outright denial.
D. Regression is a defense mechanism where an individual reverts to behaviors characteristic of an
earlier developmental stage in response to stress or conflict. The patient’s crying and tantrum can be seen as regressive behavior because it reflects a return to more childlike or immature ways of handling frustration, similar to how a child might react to not getting what they want.

A. escalation B. recovery C. crisis D. Trigger

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. During escalation, individuals are experiencing increasing tension and anger but may still be able to respond to reason or directions. This is the stage where intervention is crucial to prevent the situation from worsening.
B. This phase follows the crisis and is characterized by a decrease in tension. Individuals may be more receptive to communication and reasoning at this point.
C. This is the stage where individuals have lost control, and their behavior is driven by intense emotions. They are unable to process information or respond rationally.
D. The trigger is the initial event that sets off the cycle. While it can lead to escalating emotions, it doesn't necessarily prevent individuals from listening or engaging mentally.

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When the patient who overeats insists that weight gain is related to retained fluids, the nurse recognizes the patient is using which defense mechanism?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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Explanation

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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