A nurse is working with a client who has an anxiety disorder and is in the orientation phase of the therapeutic relationship.
Which of the following statements should the nurse make during this phase?

Choice A rationale:

Borderline personality disorder is characterized by impulsivity, unstable relationships, and mood swings. While individuals with this disorder may have concerns about details, it is not the primary characteristic of the disorder. The impulsivity exhibited by these clients is a more prominent feature.

Choice B rationale:

While individuals with borderline personality disorder may struggle with interpersonal relationships and may sometimes display seductive behavior, this is not a defining characteristic of the disorder. The primary concern lies in their impulsivity and emotional instability.

Choice C rationale:

Clinginess can be a feature of borderline personality disorder, but it is not the defining characteristic. The disorder is more accurately characterized by a pervasive pattern of instability in interpersonal relationships, self-image, and affects, marked impulsivity that begins by early adulthood and is present in various contexts.

Choice D rationale:

Borderline personality disorder is indeed marked by impulsive behavior, one of the key diagnostic criteria according to the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition). This impulsivity often leads to self-damaging behaviors, such as reckless driving, substance abuse, and unsafe sex. Including this information in the in-service is crucial for an accurate understanding of the disorder.

Choice A rationale:

Expressing concern about another shift's holiday hours does not necessarily involve interpersonal conflict. It may reflect dissatisfaction but doesn't involve direct conflict between individuals.

Choice B rationale:

A personal difficulty with caring for clients who have HIV could be a challenge for the nurse, but it's not an example of interpersonal conflict. It represents a personal struggle rather than a conflict with another individual.

Choice C rationale:

Insulting comments directed at a nurse by another nurse represent interpersonal conflict. Such behavior involves a direct clash of personalities and can create a hostile work environment, affecting the nurse's well-being and job performance. Addressing this type of conflict is crucial for maintaining a positive work atmosphere.

Choice D rationale:

Submitting a complaint about another department's handoff reporting might indicate dissatisfaction or concerns about workflow, but it's not necessarily an interpersonal conflict. It could be a communication issue or a difference in professional opinion rather than a direct clash between individuals.