A nurse is caring for a client who has a new diagnosis of metastatic lung cancer. The client states, "I can't think about that until after my first grandchild is born next week." The nurse should identify the client's statement as indicating the maladaptive use of which of the following defense mechanisms?

A. Sublimation involves channeling unacceptable impulses into socially acceptable activities, which is not demonstrated by the client’s statement. B. Compensation involves making up for a perceived deficiency in one area by excelling in another area. This is not relevant to the client’s statement. C. Suppression is a defense mechanism where an individual consciously avoids thinking about something distressing. The client is consciously postponing thoughts about their cancer diagnosis until after a personal event. D. Regression involves reverting to an earlier stage of development in response to stress, which is not reflected in the client’s attempt to delay thinking about the diagnosis.