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    Comprehensive final test-mental health proctored exam

    Which of the following patients diagnosed with a personality disorder is most likely to be admitted to a psychiatric unit?

    Explanation & Rationale

    Choice A reason: Narcissistic personality disorder is characterized by grandiosity and a lack of empathy. While these traits make social interaction difficult, they rarely necessitate acute inpatient psychiatric hospitalization unless the individual experiences a co-occurring major depressive episode or a significant crisis leading to self-harm or psychosis. Choice B reason: Individuals with dependent personality disorder exhibit an excessive need to be taken care of and are submissive. While they may experience high anxiety or depression when a relationship ends, they are generally managed in outpatient settings through therapy rather than in an acute psychiatric stabilization unit. Choice C reason: Borderline personality disorder involves significant emotional dysregulation and high levels of impulsivity. These patients frequently engage in non-suicidal self-injury or suicidal gestures during crises. Due to the high risk of self-harm and the instability of their moods, they are the most frequent personality disorder admissions. Choice D reason: While individuals with antisocial or paranoid traits may be dangerous, the commission of crimes usually leads to legal incarceration rather than psychiatric admission. Psychiatric units are for clinical stabilization of mental illness, whereas criminal behavior in the absence of acute psychosis is handled by the justice system.

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