A nurse is caring for a client whose partner recently died from an opioid overdose. The client tells the nurse, "Now, I volunteer for the local chapter of Narcotics Anonymous." The nurse should identify that the client is demonstrating which of the following defense mechanisms?

Choice A reason: Repression involves unconsciously blocking painful or unacceptable thoughts and feelings from awareness. In this case, the client is not avoiding or forgetting the loss but instead channeling energy into constructive activity. Therefore, repression does not apply. Choice B reason: Displacement occurs when emotions are redirected from the original source to a safer substitute target. For example, expressing anger at a coworker instead of the true source of frustration. The client is not redirecting emotions but transforming them into positive action, so displacement is not correct. Choice C reason: Sublimation is the defense mechanism where unacceptable impulses or painful emotions are transformed into socially acceptable and constructive behaviors. By volunteering for Narcotics Anonymous after the partner’s overdose, the client is channeling grief and potential maladaptive impulses into meaningful community service. This is a healthy and adaptive defense mechanism. Choice D reason: Rationalization involves justifying or explaining away unacceptable feelings or behaviors with logical reasoning. The client is not making excuses or justifications but actively engaging in positive coping. Therefore, rationalization is not the correct mechanism.