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.
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.
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