Author Question: As a nurse prepares to administer medication to a patient diagnosed with a borderline personality ... (Read 61 times)

tnt_battle · **on:** Jul 19, 2018

As a nurse prepares to administer medication to a patient diagnosed with a borderline personality disorder, the patient says, Just leave it on the table. I'll take it when I finish combing my hair. What is the nurse's best response?

a. Reinforce this assertive action by the patient. Leave the medication on the table as requested.
b. Respond to the patient, I'm worried that you might not take it. I'll come back later.
c. Say to the patient, I must watch you take the medication. Please take it now.
d. Ask the patient, Why don't you want to take your medication now?

Question 2

What is an appropriate initial outcome for a patient diagnosed with a personality disorder who frequently manipulates others? The patient will:

a. identify when feeling angry.
b. use manipulation only to get legitimate needs met.
c. acknowledge manipulative behavior when it is called to his or her attention.
d. accept fulfillment of his or her requests within an hour rather than immediately.

Jevvish · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 19, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
The individual with a borderline personality disorder characteristically demonstrates manipulative, splitting, and self-destructive behaviors. Consistent limit setting is vital for the patient's safety, but also to prevent splitting other staff. Why questions are not therapeutic. See relationship to audience response question.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
This is an early outcome that paves the way for later taking greater responsibility for controlling manipulative behavior. Identifying anger relates to anger and aggression control. Using manipulation to get legitimate needs is an inappropriate outcome. The patient would ideally use assertive behavior to promote need fulfillment. Accepting fulfillment of requests within an hour rather than immediately relates to impulsivity control.