A client who experiences stress on a regular basis asks a nurse what causes these feelings. Which is the most appropriate nursing response?
- A. Genetics have no influence on your temperament.
- B. How you reacted to past experiences influences how you feel now.
- C. Maintaining good physical health always keeps stress levels low.
- D. Stress can be avoided by using appropriate coping mechanisms.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'How you reacted to past experiences influences how you feel now.' This response is appropriate because past experiences can shape an individual's current response to stress. It acknowledges the impact of learned patterns and coping mechanisms on one's current adaptation to stressors. Choice A is incorrect because genetics can play a role in temperament to some extent. Choice C is incorrect because while physical health can contribute to stress management, it is not the sole determinant of stress levels. Choice D is incorrect as stress is not always avoidable, but coping mechanisms can help manage and reduce its impact.
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When an individual uses the defense mechanism of displacement after the boss openly disagrees with suggestions, what behavior would be expected from this individual?
- A. The individual assertively confronts the boss
- B. The individual leaves the staff meeting to work out in the gym
- C. The individual criticizes a coworker
- D. The individual takes the boss out to lunch
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C. The individual using the defense mechanism of displacement would criticize a coworker after being confronted by the boss. Displacement involves transferring feelings from one target to a neutral or less-threatening target, hence the individual criticizing a coworker instead of directly confronting the boss. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Choice A is incorrect because the individual is not likely to assertively confront the boss when using displacement. Choice B is incorrect as leaving the meeting to work out in the gym is not a typical response when displacement is used. Choice D is incorrect as taking the boss out to lunch does not align with the concept of displacement, which involves redirecting emotions onto another target.
An unemployed college graduate is experiencing severe anxiety over not finding a teaching position and has difficulty with independent problem-solving. During a routine physical examination, the graduate confides in the clinic nurse. Which is the most appropriate nursing intervention?
- A. Encourage the graduate to use alternative coping mechanisms such as relaxation exercises.
- B. Complete the problem-solving process for the graduate.
- C. Work through the problem-solving process with the graduate.
- D. Encourage the graduate to keep a journal.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In situations where a client is experiencing severe anxiety and struggles with independent problem-solving, it is essential for the nurse to work through the problem-solving process together with the client. By doing so, the nurse can provide support and guidance to help the client navigate through their challenges effectively. Choice A is not the most appropriate as just encouraging alternative coping mechanisms may not address the root of the problem. Choice B of completing the problem-solving process for the graduate does not promote independence or skill development. Choice D of encouraging the graduate to keep a journal may be helpful but does not directly address the need for assistance in problem-solving during heightened anxiety.
When under stress, a client routinely uses an excessive amount of alcohol. Finding her drunk, her husband yells at her about the chronic alcohol abuse. Which reaction should the nurse recognize as the use of the defense mechanism of denial?
- A. Hiding liquor bottles in a closet
- B. Yelling at their son for slouching in his chair
- C. Burning dinner on purpose
- D. Saying to the spouse, 'I don't drink too much!'
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The nurse should recognize the client's statement 'I don't drink too much!' as the use of the defense mechanism of denial. This response indicates the client's refusal to acknowledge the reality of excessive alcohol consumption, which is a key characteristic of denial. By denying the problem, the client avoids facing the negative consequences and feelings associated with their alcohol abuse. Choices A, B, and C do not exhibit denial but rather represent different defense mechanisms. Hiding liquor bottles in a closet might indicate the defense mechanism of concealment, yelling at their son for slouching in his chair could reflect displacement, and burning dinner on purpose might suggest passive-aggressive behavior.
Which is an example of the ego defense mechanism of regression?
- A. A mother blames the teacher for her child's failure in school.
- B. A teenager becomes hysterical after seeing a friend killed in a car accident.
- C. A woman wants to marry a man exactly like her beloved father.
- D. An adult throws a temper tantrum when he does not get his own way.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D. Regression involves reverting to an earlier stage of development for comfort. In this case, an adult throwing a temper tantrum is regressing to a childlike behavior when faced with not getting their way, which is a form of seeking comfort associated with earlier development. Choices A, B, and C do not exemplify regression. Blaming the teacher, becoming hysterical after a traumatic event, or seeking a partner similar to a beloved father are not instances of reverting to earlier developmental stages to cope with stress or conflict.
When developing a care plan for a client with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), which of the following interventions should not be included?
- A. Encourage the client to avoid anxiety-provoking situations.
- B. Teach the client relaxation techniques.
- C. Encourage the client to express their feelings.
- D. Provide a structured daily routine.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Avoiding anxiety-provoking situations is not a recommended intervention in caring for a client with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) as it can reinforce the client's anxiety. Exposing the client gradually to feared situations can help reduce anxiety in the long term through techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy. Teaching relaxation techniques helps the client manage stress and anxiety effectively. Encouraging the client to express their feelings promotes emotional processing and reduces internal tension. Providing a structured daily routine can offer predictability and stability, which are beneficial for individuals with GAD.