Question

The nurse is caring for a client recently diagnosed with myelocytic leukemia who refers to the diagnosis with the use of facts, figures, and statistics. Which defense mechanism is the client utilizing? A. Projection B. Sublimation C. Intellectualization D. Reaction formation

Short answer

Answer: C. Intellectualization

Step-by-step solution

Define defense mechanisms

First, let's define each defense mechanism: A. Projection: Attributing one's own thoughts, feelings, or motives to another person B. Sublimation: Transforming unacceptable impulses into socially acceptable actions C. Intellectualization: Dealing with emotional problems by focusing on facts and logic rather than emotions D. Reaction Formation: Behaving in a way that is the opposite of what one really feels

Match the client's behavior with the appropriate defense mechanism

The client is focusing on facts, figures, and statistics to deal with their recent myelocytic leukemia diagnosis. This behavior indicates that the client is trying to cope with the emotional distress by turning their attention to facts and logic, instead of dealing with their emotions. This behavior aligns with the definition of intellectualization. Therefore, the correct answer is C. Intellectualization.

Key concepts

Defense Mechanisms in Nursing

In the realm of nursing, understanding defense mechanisms is crucial, as it allows healthcare professionals to develop empathy and provide more holistic care. Defense mechanisms are subconscious coping techniques that protect individuals from feeling anxiety or stress due to uncomfortable emotions or thoughts. They are often utilized without the person's awareness in order to manage emotional conflict and external stressors.

Common defense mechanisms include denial, where an individual refuses to accept reality; rationalization, which involves justifying certain behaviors or thoughts; and displacement, where emotions are transferred from the original source of distress to a safer target. Nurses must be adept at recognizing these mechanisms in patients to better assist them in coping with illness, trauma, or the healthcare environment. Identifying and appreciating these mechanisms can enhance patient-nurse communication and improve care outcomes.

Myelocytic Leukemia

Myelocytic leukemia, more specifically known as acute myeloid leukemia (AML), is a type of cancer that begins in the blood-forming cells of the bone marrow. It leads to an overproduction of immature white blood cells, known as myeloblasts or myelocytes, which can interfere with the production of normal blood cells.

Treatment options for myelocytic leukemia vary depending on several factors, including the subtype of AML, the patient's age, and overall health. Therapies may include chemotherapy, targeted therapy drugs, and bone marrow transplant. Understanding the medical aspects and treatment of the disease is vital for healthcare providers; however, recognizing the emotional and psychological impact on patients is equally important. Nurses play a crucial role in providing support, education, and care to patients and their families dealing with this challenging diagnosis.

Intellectualization

The defense mechanism intellectualization involves a person engaging in excessive abstract thinking to avoid confronting distressing emotions. When a patient is diagnosed with a serious condition, such as myelocytic leukemia, they may use intellectualization to detach from the emotional weight of their situation. By focusing on facts, statistics, and medical information, the person creates a safe psychological distance from the reality of their illness.

Nurses encountering patients who are intellectualizing often note their clinical and detached discussions about their condition. This mechanism can be a temporary coping strategy to manage shock or overwhelming news. As healthcare professionals, it is essential to respect this coping mechanism but also gently encourage patients to express and process their emotions when they are ready. This may include providing empathetic listening, offering psychological support, and referring to counseling services when appropriate.