A newly admitted patient is severely depressed, lost 20 pounds over the past month, and expresses hopelessness for the future. Select the priority nursing diagnosis

A. Allow the client to pace alone until physically tired: While pacing can be a coping mechanism, leaving the client alone may not be the most therapeutic approach. It is important for the nurse to provide support and assess the client's emotional state.

B. Walk with the client at a gradually slower pace: This is the correct answer. Walking with the client at a gradually slower pace allows the nurse to offer support and engage in therapeutic communication. It provides a calming presence and can assist the client in self-regulating their anxiety.

C. Have a staff member escort the client to her room: Escorting the client to her room might be perceived as restrictive or punitive. It is generally more beneficial to engage in supportive interventions and encourage coping strategies.

D. Instruct the client to sit down and stop pacing: Giving direct orders to stop pacing may increase anxiety and may not be an effective approach. It is often better to engage in a supportive manner and explore ways to help the client manage their anxiety.

A. Using authoritative leadership to help clients learn to conform to societal norms: Authoritative leadership may be perceived as controlling and is unlikely to be effective with clients diagnosed with borderline personality disorder. It can lead to resistance and difficulties in building a therapeutic alliance.

B. Being firm, consistent, and empathetic, while addressing specific client behaviors: This approach is most appropriate. Clients with borderline personality disorder often benefit from clear and consistent boundaries, along with empathy from the nurse. Addressing specific behaviors helps establish a structured and safe therapeutic environment.

C. Promoting client expression by implementing laissez-faire leadership: Laissez-faire leadership, characterized by minimal interference or direction, is generally not suitable for clients with borderline personality disorder. They may struggle with emotional dysregulation and benefit from a more structured and supportive approach.

D. Overlooking inappropriate behaviors to avoid promoting secondary gains: Overlooking inappropriate behaviors may reinforce maladaptive patterns and hinder progress in therapy. It is essential to address and work through specific behaviors while maintaining empathy and consistency.