Question

a nurse is caring for a client who has pancreatic cancer that is unresponsive to treatment. the client is experiencing significant weight loss and fatigue, but when the nurse asks how they are feeling, they respond with, \great! im going to beat this cancer.\ which of the following defense mechanisms is the client using? regression projection repression denial

Explanation:

To determine the defense mechanism, we analyze each option:

• Regression: Involves reverting to earlier, more childlike behaviors. The client's response doesn't show this.
• Projection: Attributing one's own unacceptable thoughts/feelings to others. Not applicable here.
• Repression: Unconsciously forgetting or blocking distressing thoughts. The client is not forgetting but denying.
• Denial: Refusing to accept reality (e.g., the severity of the illness). The client, despite poor prognosis and symptoms, claims they will beat the cancer, refusing to accept the reality of the situation.

Answer:

D. Denial