A nurse is interviewing a distressed client, who relates being fired after 15 years of loyal employment. Which of the following questions would best assist the nurse to determine the clients appraisal of the situation? Select all that apply.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: "What resources have you used previously in stressful situations?" This question is the best choice as it focuses on understanding the client's coping mechanisms and resilience. By asking about previous resources used, the nurse can assess the client's strengths and support systems. Choice B is incorrect because asking if the client has experienced a similar situation does not directly address the client's current appraisal of the situation. Choice C is incorrect as it focuses on assigning blame, which may not be helpful in understanding the client's perspective and emotions. Choice D is also incorrect because asking why the client thinks they were fired may lead to a defensive response and may not necessarily provide insight into the client's appraisal of the situation.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because it directly addresses the client's resistance by providing relevant information linking psychological factors to medical conditions. By explaining the impact of stress on health, the nurse demonstrates the importance of addressing psychosocial aspects during the assessment. Choice A is incorrect as it does not acknowledge the client's concerns and may come off as dismissive. Choice B is also incorrect as it focuses on the client's feelings rather than providing information to address the issue. Choice D is incorrect as it offers to skip the questions, which goes against the best practice of conducting a comprehensive assessment.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Displacement is a defense mechanism where emotions are redirected from the original source to a substitute target. In this case, the employee is likely to displace their anger from the boss onto a coworker by criticizing them. This behavior allows the employee to express their feelings indirectly. A: Assertively confronting the boss does not align with displacement as it involves direct confrontation. B: Leaving the meeting to work out in the gym is a form of avoidance and does not involve displacing emotions onto another target. D: Taking the boss out to lunch is more of a conciliatory gesture and does not involve displacing negative emotions onto someone else.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because the client is using denial as a defense mechanism to cope with the stress of being confronted about her alcohol abuse. By saying "I don't drink too much," she is refusing to acknowledge the reality of her excessive alcohol consumption. This denial allows her to avoid facing the uncomfortable truth and the need for change. A: Hiding liquor bottles in a closet is an example of a defense mechanism called displacement, not denial. B: Yelling at their son for slouching in his chair is an example of a defense mechanism called projection, not denial. C: Burning dinner on purpose is an example of a defense mechanism called passive-aggression, not denial.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because excessive use of defense mechanisms can hinder problem-solving skills by avoiding facing reality and finding constructive solutions. Defense mechanisms are psychological strategies that individuals unconsciously use to cope with anxiety and protect the ego. By relying too heavily on these mechanisms, individuals may overlook important issues, leading to limited problem-solving abilities. This can result in difficulties in adapting to challenges and impede personal growth. Emotions being experienced intensely (A) is not the most significant consequence as it is a natural response to certain situations and does not directly relate to defense mechanisms. The superego being suppressed (C) is not a direct consequence of defense mechanisms but may occur as a result of unresolved conflicts. Learning and growth being enhanced (D) is incorrect as excessive defense mechanisms can actually hinder learning and personal development.