When a patient is asked whether he wants his pain medication, he says to you, "I don't know; whatever you think is best." What should the nurse recognize this maladaptive coping mechanism as?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's response of deferring to the nurse's decision rather than making his own indicates a sense of powerlessness. This may be a maladaptive coping mechanism in which the patient feels that he has no control over his situation and relies on others to make decisions for him. It is important for the nurse to assess the patient's level of understanding and involvement in his care and to involve him in decision-making to promote a sense of empowerment and autonomy.

When a Patient Is Asked Whether He Wants His Pain