A nurse is caring for a client who has major depressive disorder and states that he has given away his personal belongings. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

A. Takes advantage of others for her own benefit:
This behavior is not specific to paranoid personality disorder. Instead, it may be seen in individuals with antisocial personality disorder, who disregard the rights of others and exploit them for personal gain. People with paranoid personality disorder are more characterized by a pervasive distrust of others and a belief that others are out to harm or deceive them.

B. Believes that others are deceiving her:
This is a hallmark symptom of paranoid personality disorder. Individuals with this disorder often exhibit extreme distrust and suspicion, believing that others have hidden motives or are deliberately trying to deceive, harm, or manipulate them. This suspiciousness and belief in the untrustworthiness of others are key features of paranoid personality disorder.

C. Shows exaggerated expression of emotions:
Exaggerated expression of emotions is not a defining characteristic of paranoid personality disorder. People with this disorder tend to display a guarded and suspicious demeanor rather than exaggerated emotional expressions. Their interpersonal interactions are often marked by skepticism and wariness.

D. Demonstrates detachment from others:
Detachment from others is more characteristic of schizoid personality disorder, not paranoid personality disorder. Individuals with schizoid personality disorder tend to be emotionally detached and have limited interest in social interactions. In contrast, individuals with paranoid personality disorder are highly suspicious and tend to assume that others are hostile or malevolent, leading to interpersonal difficulties rooted in their intense distrust.

A. Recommend that the client participate in more solitary activities.
This option is not suitable because encouraging solitary activities may lead to further isolation, which can worsen the client's depressive feelings. Social support and connection are often crucial during the grieving process.

B. Explain to the client that the duration of grief is highly variable and can last for years.
This is the correct choice. Grief is a complex and individual process, and there is no specific timeline for how long it should last. Some people may continue to experience feelings of sadness and loss for an extended period after the death of a loved one. Validating the client's emotions and letting them know that their experience is within the range of normal can be comforting.

C. Encourage the client to avoid discussing the events surrounding the sibling's death.
This option is not recommended. Encouraging the client to avoid discussing their feelings can hinder the healing process. Open communication about the loss can help the client process their emotions and find ways to cope.

D. Caution the client against feeling angry at the sibling.
This option is not appropriate. Allowing the client to express their feelings, including anger, is a healthy part of the grieving process. Suppressing emotions, including anger, can lead to complications in the grieving process. It is essential to acknowledge and validate all the client's emotions.