Author Question: An adult male reports new-onset seizurelike activity. An EEG and a neurology consultant's report ... (Read 41 times)

soccerdreamer_17 · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

An adult male reports new-onset seizurelike activity. An EEG and a neurology consultant's report rule out a seizure disorder. When considering the ego defense mechanism of conversion, the nurse's next best action would be to

a. Recommend acupuncture.
b. Confront the patient on malingering.
c. Obtain history of any recent life stressors.
d. Recommend a regular exercise program.

Question 2

After a natural disaster occurred, an emergency worker referred a family for crisis intervention services. One family member refused to attend the services, stating No way, I'm not crazy. The best response the nurse can give is which of the following?

a. Many times disasters can create mental health problems, so you really should participate with your family.
b. Crisis intervention is a short-term problem-solving type of help, and seeking this help does not mean that you have a mental illness.
c. Don't worry now. The psychiatrists are well trained to help.
d. Crisis intervention will help your family communicate better.

snackralk · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
The purpose of an ego defense mechanism is to help regulate emotional stress. By regulating emotional stress, the individual gains some protection from anxiety and stress. A conversion reaction involves repressing an anxiety-producing conflict and transforming it into a nonorganic symptom such as difficulty sleeping, appetite loss, or sudden blindness without medical cause. The nurse must assess the patient fully before implementing any nursing interventions. Although the patient may be malingering, confrontation is nontherapeutic because the patient is using this type of defense mechanism in response to some type of stressor.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
Crisis intervention is a type of brief therapy that is more directive than typical psychotherapy or counseling. It focuses on problem solving and involves only the problem created by the crisis. The goal of crisis intervention is to create stability for the person involved in the crisis while promoting self-reliance. The other options do not properly reassure the patient and build trust.