When a client with a personality disorder uses self-destructive behavior as a way of getting needs met, the staff observe the behavior closely because:
It is required to ensure the safety of the client and others.
It indulges the client’s wishes.
It provides an outlet for feelings of anger and frustration.
The client’s anger and anxiety will be decreased if staff assume responsibility for the client’s behavior.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A Reason:
When a client with a personality disorder engages in self-destructive behavior, it is crucial for the staff to observe this behavior closely to ensure the safety of both the client and others around them. Self-destructive behaviors can include actions such as self-harm, substance abuse, or reckless activities that pose a significant risk to the individual’s well-being. By monitoring these behaviors, staff can intervene promptly to prevent harm and provide necessary support. Ensuring safety is a fundamental aspect of care in mental health settings, as it helps to stabilize the client and create a secure environment for their treatment and recover.
Choice B Reason:
Indulging the client’s wishes is not a recommended approach when dealing with self-destructive behavior. While it is important to understand and validate the client’s feelings, indulging their wishes can reinforce negative behaviors and hinder their progress towards healthier coping mechanisms. Instead, staff should focus on providing appropriate interventions and support that address the underlying issues contributing to the self-destructive behavior. This approach helps the client develop more constructive ways of meeting their needs and managing their emotions.
Choice C Reason:
While self-destructive behavior may provide a temporary outlet for feelings of anger and frustration, it is not a healthy or sustainable way to cope with these emotions. Encouraging or allowing such behavior can lead to further harm and exacerbate the client’s mental health issues. Staff should work with the client to identify and implement healthier coping strategies that effectively address their emotional needs without causing harm. This can include therapeutic interventions, counseling, and skills training to help the client manage their anger and frustration in more constructive ways.
Choice D Reason:
Assuming responsibility for the client’s behavior is not an effective way to reduce their anger and anxiety. In fact, it can create a dependency on staff and prevent the client from developing their own coping skills and sense of autonomy. It is important for staff to support the client in taking responsibility for their actions and learning how to manage their emotions independently. This empowerment is a key component of the therapeutic process and contributes to the client’s long-term recovery and well-being.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
a. You are safe now.
Explanation of Choices
Choice A Reason: You Are Safe Now
This statement is the most appropriate because it immediately addresses the client’s need for safety and reassurance. Victims of sexual assault often experience intense fear and anxiety. By reassuring the client that they are now in a safe environment, the nurse helps to stabilize the client’s emotional state and begins to build trust. This statement is crucial in creating a sense of security, which is the first step in providing effective care and support.
Choice B Reason: I’ll Call Your Spouse
While involving a support person can be beneficial, this statement does not address the client’s immediate emotional needs. The priority at this moment is to ensure the client feels safe and supported. Once the client is reassured and stabilized, the nurse can then discuss involving family members or other support persons. Immediate focus should be on the client’s safety and emotional well-being.
Choice C Reason: We’ll Have to Take Photographs of These Wounds
Taking photographs for forensic evidence is an important part of the medical and legal process following a sexual assault. However, this statement is not therapeutic and does not address the client’s immediate emotional needs. Discussing forensic procedures should come after the client feels safe and supported. The nurse should first focus on providing emotional reassurance before moving on to procedural details.
Choice D Reason: The Police Will Want to Interview You
Informing the client about the need for a police interview is necessary, but it is not the priority therapeutic statement at this moment. The client is likely already overwhelmed and distressed. The nurse should first provide reassurance and emotional support before discussing legal procedures. Ensuring the client feels safe and supported is essential before introducing additional stressors.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason: Is not responding to other clients on the unit.
While a lack of response to other clients can indicate social withdrawal and isolation, which are common in depressive episodes, it does not necessarily indicate an immediate risk to the client’s safety. This behavior is concerning but does not require the highest priority intervention compared to other behaviors that may indicate a risk of self-harm or suicidal ideation.
Choice B Reason: Is refusing to take their prescribed mood stabilizer.
Refusing medication is a significant concern as it can lead to worsening of symptoms and destabilization of the client’s condition. However, this behavior does not indicate an immediate risk to the client’s safety. The nurse should address this issue promptly, but it is not the highest priority compared to behaviors that suggest suicidal ideation.
Choice C Reason: Angrily argues with another client stating, “God is dead.”
This behavior indicates agitation and potential conflict with others, which can be problematic in a clinical setting. However, it does not directly suggest an immediate risk to the client’s safety. The nurse should intervene to de-escalate the situation and provide support, but this is not the highest priority compared to signs of suicidal ideation.
Choice D Reason: States, “There is no future when you feel so depressed.”
This statement is highly concerning as it indicates feelings of hopelessness and potential suicidal ideation. Expressions of hopelessness and statements about the future being bleak are significant risk factors for suicide. The nurse should prioritize this behavior for immediate intervention to assess the client’s risk of self-harm and provide appropriate support and safety measures.
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