A client with antisocial personality disorder is begging to use the phone to call his wife, even though it is against the unit rules. The client begs, "It is just this once, and she will be so hurt if I don't call her." What is the most appropriate response by the nurse?

Choice A reason: This response shifts the focus to recovery but does not directly enforce the rule. Clients with antisocial personality disorder often manipulate situations, so vague reasoning may invite further argument. Choice B reason: This response places responsibility on the supervisor rather than the nurse’s authority. It can encourage manipulation by making the nurse appear powerless. Choice C reason: This is the most appropriate response because it is clear, firm, and enforces unit rules without emotional reasoning. Consistency and limit-setting are essential when managing antisocial personality disorder to prevent manipulation and maintain boundaries. Choice D reason: Allowing the client to break the rule “just this once” reinforces manipulative behavior and undermines consistency. It teaches the client that rules can be bent through persuasion, which is counterproductive.