which defense mechanism is considered a conscious measure that is used to cope with anxiety
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Nursing Elites

NCLEX-RN

NCLEX Psychosocial Integrity Questions

1. Which defense mechanism is considered a conscious measure used to cope with anxiety?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is Suppression. Suppression is a conscious defense mechanism in which an individual intentionally avoids thinking about disturbing problems, wishes, feelings, or experiences. It is a way to cope with anxiety by actively pushing aside unwanted thoughts or emotions. Undoing, on the other hand, is an unconscious defense mechanism where one uses words or behaviors to symbolically make amends for unacceptable thoughts or actions. Projection is also an unconscious defense mechanism involving falsely attributing one's own unacceptable impulses to others. Intellectualization, another unconscious defense mechanism, involves using intellect or thinking to avoid dealing with emotionally charged feelings.

2. Which of the following individuals is at the highest risk of suicide?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is an 80-year-old man who lost his wife last year. Certain factors increase the risk of suicide, such as recent loss of a loved one, in this case, the man's wife. The elderly are a high-risk group due to factors like social isolation, physical health issues, and bereavement. While experiencing a loss can affect anyone, the combination of age, loss of a spouse, and the associated emotional impact elevates the risk significantly. The other choices are not at the highest risk of suicide. A former alcoholic who has been sober for 12 years has taken steps towards recovery, reducing the immediate risk. A 40-year-old married businessman and a 36-year-old woman whose former neighbor committed suicide do not have the same level of immediate risk as the elderly man who recently lost his wife.

3. Which characteristic usually results in a behavior being viewed and accepted as normal?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Behaviors that align with the standards accepted by a society are generally viewed as normal. Societal norms and values play a significant role in defining what is considered normal behavior. Choices B, C, and D may be important aspects of an individual's functioning, but they do not solely determine whether a behavior is viewed as normal. Coping skills, expressions of feelings, and goal achievement can vary in their cultural context and societal acceptance, therefore they are not definitive indicators of normalcy.

4. A teenager begins to cry while talking with the nurse about the problem of not being able to make friends. Which is the correct therapeutic nursing intervention?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct therapeutic nursing intervention in this situation is sitting quietly with the client. This approach conveys empathy, acceptance, and a willingness to listen, which can help the teenager feel supported and understood. It is important for the nurse to create a safe space for the client to express their emotions without judgment. Telling the client that crying is not helpful dismisses their feelings and can hinder the therapeutic relationship. Suggesting a board game as a distraction may prevent the client from fully exploring and addressing their emotions about the issue. Recommending how the client can change the situation may be premature at this stage, as the priority is to provide emotional support and establish trust before delving into problem-solving.

5. The nurse is teaching an obese client, newly diagnosed with arteriosclerosis, about reducing the risk of a heart attack or stroke. Which health promotion brochure is most important for the nurse to provide to this client?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The most important health promotion brochure to provide to an obese client newly diagnosed with arteriosclerosis is one focused on decreasing cholesterol levels through diet. Arteriosclerosis is significantly influenced by excess dietary fat, especially saturated fat and cholesterol. Monitoring blood pressure at home, while important, does not directly address the underlying cause of arteriosclerosis. Smoking cessation and stress management are crucial for overall cardiovascular health, but lowering cholesterol through diet takes precedence in this scenario.

Similar Questions

The nurse plans to administer diazepam, 4 mg IV push, to a client with severe anxiety. How many milliliters should the nurse administer? (Round to the nearest tenth.)
While planning care for a 2-year-old hospitalized child, which situation would the nurse most likely expect to affect the behavior?
The mother of a 5-month-old is being educated about her baby's nutrition by the nurse. Which statement by the mother indicates the need for further teaching?
A client has just died, and their son states, 'She was the most wonderful mother. There was no one who was a better mother than she was. She was perfect.' Which stage of grief is this son experiencing?
A male client is laughing at a television program with his wife when the evening nurse enters the room. He says his foot is hurting and he would like a pain pill. How should the nurse respond?

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