a 19 year old client is paralyzed in a car accident which statement used by the client would indicate to the nurse that the client was using the mecha
Logo

Nursing Elites

NCLEX-RN

NCLEX Psychosocial Questions

1. A 19-year-old client is paralyzed in a car accident. Which statement used by the client would indicate to the nurse that the client was using the mechanism of 'suppression'?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is, '"I don't remember anything about what happened to me."?' Suppression involves willfully putting an unacceptable thought or feeling out of one's mind. In this case, the client is purposely choosing not to remember details of the traumatic event to avoid dealing with the associated emotions. Choice B, '"I'd rather not talk about it right now,"?' suggests avoidance or deflection rather than active suppression. Choice C, '"It's the other entire guy's fault! He was going too fast,"?' indicates blaming someone else for the situation, which is a form of defense mechanism known as externalization. Choice D, '"My mother is heartbroken about this,"?' expresses empathy towards the mother's emotions and does not demonstrate suppression of personal feelings.

2. A client who has been told she needs a hysterectomy for cervical cancer reports being upset about being unable to have a third child. Which action would the nurse take?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the nurse should ensure that other treatment options for the client are explored. While a hysterectomy may be necessary for cervical cancer, conservative management options like cervical conization and laser treatment may allow for future pregnancies. It is crucial for the nurse to inform the client of all available treatment choices. Evaluating the client's willingness to pursue adoption is not directly addressing the client's concerns about fertility. Encouraging the client to focus on her own recovery and emphasizing that she already has two children dismiss the client's distress over not being able to have a third child, which is important to acknowledge in a sensitive manner.

3. A client who has been on hemodialysis for 2 years communicates in an angry, critical manner and does not adhere to the prescribed medications and diet. Which explanation for the client's behavior would be useful to consider in planning care?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The client's angry, critical communication and non-adherence to treatment suggest underlying emotional struggles. The behavior is likely a defense mechanism against feelings of depression and fear. It is essential to consider that the client's actions are not intentionally aimed at punishing others but rather a manifestation of internal distress. Option A is incorrect as the behavior is not about punishing the nursing staff. Option B is incorrect because the behavior is not a constructive way of accepting reality but rather a maladaptive coping mechanism. Option D is incorrect as the behavior is not primarily driven by an effort to maintain life but rather by emotional distress.

4. A 5-year-old child has been recently admitted to the hospital. According to Erik Erikson's psychosocial development stages, the child is in which stage?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Initiative vs. guilt.' According to Erik Erikson's psychosocial development stages, children aged 3-6 years old are in the stage of initiative versus guilt. During this stage, children begin to assert their power and control over the environment. They develop a sense of purpose and direction, but may also experience feelings of guilt if they believe their actions have caused harm or conflict. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. 'Trust vs. mistrust' is the first stage for infants, 'Autonomy vs. shame and doubt' is the second stage for toddlers, and 'Intimacy vs. isolation' is a stage that occurs later in adulthood.

5. Which activity would be most beneficial for a school-age client diagnosed with a chronic illness to enhance a sense of accomplishment?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Making up missed work is an essential activity that can help a school-age client diagnosed with a chronic illness feel a sense of accomplishment. By catching up on missed work, the child can regain a sense of control and productivity, which can be empowering during a challenging time. Wearing make-up is more related to personal grooming and self-expression, which may not directly contribute to a sense of accomplishment in this context. Participating in sports activities is beneficial for peer relationships and physical health but may not address the immediate need for accomplishment in the academic setting. Engaging in creative activities fosters cognitive development but may not directly address the sense of achievement associated with completing academic tasks.

Similar Questions

After a client has a spontaneous abortion at 12 weeks' gestation, the nurse notes that both she and her partner are visibly upset and crying. Which statement would be a therapeutic response?
Which instruction is most important for the nurse to include when teaching a client with limited mobility strategies to prevent venous thrombosis?
After attending group therapy, the client says, 'It helps to know that I'm not the only one with this type of problem.' Which concept does this statement reflect?
Which source of stress would the nurse anticipate in a 5-year-old client?
Which characteristic usually results in a behavior being viewed and accepted as normal?

Access More Features

NCLEX RN Basic
$69.99/ 30 days

  • 5,000 Questions with answers
  • Comprehensive NCLEX coverage
  • 30 days access

NCLEX RN Premium
$149.99/ 90 days

  • 5,000 Questions with answers
  • Comprehensive NCLEX coverage
  • 30 days access

Other Courses