Which assessment finding for a client diagnosed with an eating disorder meets a criterion for
hospitalization? Select one:

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a type of anxiety disorder characterized by excessive and persistent worry about a variety of different things, including health, work, relationships, and everyday situations. People with GAD may experience physical symptoms, such as fatigue, muscle tension, and restlessness.

Option a is not a typical finding associated with GAD. Sudden unexplained loss of vision may be a symptom

of a neurological or ophthalmologic condition, but not specifically related to GAD.

Option c describes a condition called body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), which is a type of obsessive- compulsive disorder characterized by an excessive preoccupation with a perceived physical flaw. BDD is not typically associated with GAD.

Option d does not describe a typical finding associated with GAD. While physical health issues can contribute to anxiety, the need for surgeries within the last three months is not necessarily indicative of GAD.

Therefore, the correct option is b. Constant worry about the undiagnosed presence of an illness for more than 6 months. People with GAD often worry about their health and the possibility of having an undiagnosed illness, even when there is no evidence of a problem. This worry may persist for six months or more and can interfere with daily life.

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.