What function does the flexible line of defense serve?

The flexible line of defense plays a crucial role in a person's overall health by acting as a buffer against stressors that may threaten the stability of the normal line of defense. This concept is rooted in the Neuman Systems Model, which emphasizes the importance of maintaining equilibrium in response to external and internal stressors.

When a stressor is encountered, the flexible line of defense can be activated to provide an additional layer of protection. This allows for a proactive approach to healthcare, helping to manage potential health issues before they escalate. By effectively absorbing or deflecting the impact of stressors, the flexible line of defense supports the integrity of the normal line of defense, which represents the individual's typical state of wellness or stability.

In this context, the correct understanding aligns with the idea that the flexible line of defense is fundamentally about safeguarding the client's inherent capacities and resources from undue stress that might disrupt their overall health.