Which would most likely be a type of behavior that would be manifested by a client who has histrionic personality disorder?

Choice A reason: The nurse manager is responsible for administrative oversight, staffing, and unit operations. While they may be informed of serious events, they are not the immediate clinical authority to address suspected lithium toxicity. Lithium toxicity is a medical emergency requiring physician intervention, not administrative management.

Choice B reason: The psychiatric nurse is skilled in monitoring mental health symptoms and providing therapeutic interventions. However, the psychiatric nurse does not have the authority to prescribe or adjust medications. While they can support the client and report findings, they cannot directly intervene in the pharmacological management of lithium toxicity.

Choice C reason: The psychiatrist is the correct person to notify because they are the prescribing provider responsible for managing the client’s medication regimen. Lithium toxicity can cause neurological and systemic complications such as tremors, dizziness, confusion, and even seizures. Immediate medical evaluation and possible discontinuation or adjustment of lithium are required. The psychiatrist can order serum lithium levels, initiate treatment such as IV fluids to enhance excretion, and determine whether hospitalization is necessary.

Choice D reason: The recreation therapist focuses on promoting psychosocial well-being through activities and leisure interventions. They do not have the medical expertise or authority to manage medication toxicity. Notifying them would not address the urgent clinical need of suspected lithium toxicity.

Choice A reason: Paranoid personality disorder is defined by a pervasive pattern of distrust and suspicion of others. Individuals with this disorder often interpret others’ motives as malevolent, are hypervigilant, and may hold grudges. They frequently misinterpret benign remarks or actions as threatening, which aligns directly with the description in the question.

Choice B reason: Dependent personality disorder is characterized by excessive reliance on others for emotional support and decision-making. These individuals fear abandonment and struggle with self-confidence. While dependency is a hallmark, mistrust and suspicion are not features of this disorder, making it incorrect in this context.

Choice C reason: Schizoid personality disorder involves detachment from social relationships and a limited range of emotional expression. Individuals with this disorder prefer solitary activities and show little interest in forming close relationships. Although they are socially withdrawn, they are not typically suspicious or mistrustful of others, so this does not match the question.

Choice D reason: Histrionic personality disorder is marked by excessive emotionality and attention-seeking behavior. Individuals often display dramatic, theatrical expressions and seek approval from others. Suspiciousness and pervasive mistrust are not characteristics of this disorder, making it an incorrect choice.