Author Question: A patient with borderline personality disorder has a history of self-mutilation and suicide ... (Read 73 times)

craiczarry · **on:** Jul 19, 2018

A patient with borderline personality disorder has a history of self-mutilation and suicide attempts. The patient reveals feelings of depression and anger with life. The psychiatrist suggests the use of a medication.

Which type of medication should the nurse expect?

a. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI)
b. Monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI)
c. Benzodiazepine
d. Antipsychotic

Question 2

Consider these comments to three different nurses by a patient with an antisocial personality disorder: You're a better nurse than the day shift nurse said you were; Another nurse said you don't do your job right;

You think you're perfect, but I've seen you make three mistakes. Collectively, these interactions can be assessed as:

a. Seductive
b. Detached
c. Manipulative
d. Guilt producing

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

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
SSRIs are used to treat depression. Many patients with borderline personality disorder are fearful of taking something over which they have little control. Because SSRIs have a good side effect profile, the patient is more likely to comply with the medication. Low-dose antipsychotic or anxiolytic medications are not supported by the data given in this scenario. MAOIs require great diligence in adherence to a restricted diet and are rarely used for patients who are impulsive.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
Patients manipulate and control staff members in various ways. By keeping staff members off balance or fighting among themselves, the person with an antisocial personality disorder is left to operate as he or she pleases. Seductive behavior has sexual connotations. The patient is displaying the opposite of detached behavior. Guilt is not evidenced in the comments.