In the context of stress and immune function, in which health care setting is a client more likely to be at risk for sensory deprivation?

• A. A busy outpatient clinic
• B. A rehabilitation center with group activities
• C. A pediatric emergency room
• D. An intensive care unit (ICU)

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of sensory deprivation: it occurs when a person experiences a significant reduction or absence of sensory stimuli, which can affect psychological and physiological well-being.
2. Consider the characteristics of each health care setting: a busy outpatient clinic, a rehabilitation center with group activities, and a pediatric emergency room all provide various sensory inputs such as social interaction, noise, and activity.
3. Recognize that an intensive care unit (ICU) often involves limited sensory stimulation due to factors like isolation, dim lighting, restricted movement, and minimal social interaction, which can increase the risk of sensory deprivation.
4. Analyze how sensory deprivation in the ICU can impact stress and immune function, potentially leading to negative health outcomes due to reduced environmental stimuli.
5. Conclude that among the options, the ICU is the setting where a client is most likely to be at risk for sensory deprivation because of its environment and patient care conditions.