A client who is 45 years of age has a history of anxiety and comes into the emergency department with chest pain. The patient is diagnosed with a myocardial infarction (MI). The patient tells the nurse, "This is the most ridiculous thing I've ever heard of. I eat well, exercise, and am too young to have a heart attack." Which reaction does the nurse recognize the patient is most likely experiencing?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's statement indicates a refusal to accept the reality of the diagnosis, which is characteristic of ineffective denial. This defense mechanism can prevent the patient from acknowledging the seriousness of their condition and engaging in necessary treatment or lifestyle adjustments.

A Client Who Is 45 Years of Age Has a History