A nurse is caring for a client who has a new diagnosis of cancer.The client states, "I can't think about my health until after my son is married next week.”. The nurse should identify the client's statement as an indication of which of the following maladaptive defense mechanisms?

Choice A rationaleReaction formation involves behaving in a way that is the opposite of one's true feelings. The client's statement focuses on delaying health concerns rather than expressing the opposite of their anxiety about their diagnosis.Choice B rationaleSplitting is a defense mechanism where individuals view themselves or others as all good or all bad. The client's statement does not demonstrate this polarized thinking; instead, it shows a postponement of addressing their health.Choice C rationaleProjection involves attributing one's own unacceptable thoughts or feelings onto another person. The client is not attributing their feelings about their cancer diagnosis to someone else; they are simply putting off thinking about it.Choice D rationaleSuppression is a conscious or semiconscious effort to avoid thinking about disturbing thoughts or feelings. The client is consciously stating their intention to not think about their cancer diagnosis until after their son's wedding, indicating a deliberate avoidance of the topic.