A nurse is developing a plan of care for a client who has paranoid personality disorder. Which of the following actions should the nurse include in the plan?
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A reason: Monitoring the client for splitting behaviors is important in managing paranoid personality disorder. Splitting is a defense mechanism where individuals cannot see others as having both positive and negative qualities; they are viewed as either all good or all bad. This behavior can disrupt therapeutic relationships and the treatment process. However, it is not the most constructive action to include in the plan of care. Choice B reason: Isolating the client from social or group interactions is not a therapeutic intervention and can be detrimental to the client's mental health. Social interactions can be challenging for individuals with paranoid personality disorder, but complete isolation is not recommended. Instead, the nurse should facilitate appropriate social interactions that do not overwhelm or trigger the client's paranoia. Choice C reason: Providing written information about the client's treatment plan can be very beneficial for individuals with paranoid personality disorder. It allows them to review the plan at their own pace and may help reduce feelings of suspicion or paranoia, as they have clear, documented information about their care. Choice D reason: Encouraging countertransference is not an appropriate action. Countertransference occurs when a healthcare provider transfers emotions to a client, often based on the provider's past experiences. This can interfere with objective care and is something to be aware of and managed, not encouraged.