A client has experienced the death of a close family member and at the same time
becomes unemployed. This situation has resulted in a 6-month score of
... [Show More] 110 on the
Recent Life Changes Questionnaire. How should the nurse evaluate this client data?
A. The client is experiencing severe distress and is at risk for physical and psychological
illness.
B. A score of 110 on the Miller and Rahe Recent Life Changes Questionnaire indicates
no significant threat of stress-related illness.
C. Susceptibility to stress-related physical or psychological illness cannot be estimated
without knowledge of coping resources and available supports.
D. The client may view these losses as challenges and perceive them as opportunities.
ANS: C
The Recent Life Changes Questionnaire is an expanded version of the Schedule of
Recent Experiences and the Rahe-Holmes Social Readjustment Rating Scale. A 6-
month score of 300 or more, or a year-score total of 500 or more, indicates high stress
in a client's life. However, positive coping mechanisms and strong social support can
limit susceptibility to stress-related illnesses.
KEY: Cognitive Level: Application | Integrated Processes: Nursing Process: Evaluation |
Client Need: Psychosocial Integrity
A physically and emotionally healthy client has just been fired. During a routine office
visit he states to a nurse: "Perhaps this was the best thing to happen. Maybe I'll look
into pursuing an art degree." How should the nurse characterize the client's appraisal of
the job loss stressor?
A. Irrelevant
B. Harm/loss
C. Threatening
D. Challenging
ANS: D
The client perceives the situation of job loss as a challenge and an opportunity for
growth.
KEY: Cognitive Level: Application | Integrated Processes: Nursing Process: Assessment
| Client Need: Psychosocial Integrity
Which client statement should alert a nurse that a client may be responding
maladaptively to stress?
A. "I've found that avoiding contact with others helps me cope."
B. "I really enjoy journaling; it's my private time."
C. "I signed up for a yoga class this week."
D. "I made an appointment to meet with a therapist."
ANS: A
Reliance on social isolation as a coping mechanism is a maladaptive method to relieve
stress. It can prevent learning appropriate coping skills and can prevent access to
needed support systems. [Show Less]