Question 4 of 60 The nursing assistant is taking care of a patient who is about to undergo an arm amputation. The patient will neither discuss nor acknowledge their upcoming surgery. This is a defense mechanism known as: Select the correct response: Regression Projection Denial Acting out < Previous

Denial is a psychological defense mechanism where individuals refuse to accept reality or facts, effectively blocking external events from their consciousness. In this case, the patient is not ready to confront the idea of their amputation, leading them to avoid discussion about it completely. Denial can serve as a temporary way to cope with overwhelming distress, allowing the person some respite before they must face the truth. In situations like these, it's crucial for nursing assistants to approach the patient with empathy and patience. Instead of forcing conversations about the surgery, creating a supportive environment where the patient feels safe to express their feelings when they're ready can be incredibly beneficial. Often, using open-ended questions and active listening can encourage the patient to gradually share their thoughts when they feel comfortable.