A nurse is collecting data from a client who has histrionic personality disorder. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

Choice A: "I’m sorry if I upset you. I just wanted to make sure you’re aware of the day’s schedule."

This response may seem empathetic, but it could potentially reinforce the client's aggressive behavior. The nurse is apologizing, which might give the impression that the client's rude behavior is acceptable¹.

Choice B: "Well, if you can read it yourself, then why don’t you?"

This response is confrontational and could escalate the situation. It's important for the nurse to maintain a neutral and respectful manner.

Choice C: "You don’t have to be so rude. I’m just doing my job."

This response is defensive and could provoke further aggression from the client. It's not recommended to respond defensively to clients with borderline personality disorder¹.

Choice D: "I didn’t mean to offend you. I’ll leave the schedule here for you to review."

This is the most appropriate response. The nurse acknowledges the client's feelings without reinforcing the aggressive behavior. The nurse also respects the client's autonomy by leaving the schedule for the client to review¹.

Choice A reason: This question assesses abstract thinking and judgment by asking the client to consider a hypothetical situation and propose a solution.

Choice B reason: Asking about the city of birth is a fact-based question and does not assess abstract thinking or judgment.

Choice C reason: Inquiring about breakfast is a recall question and does not evaluate abstract thinking or judgment.

Choice D reason: Asking who the president is tests knowledge of current events, not abstract thinking or judgment.