The community health nurse recognizes that which of the following mental health issues is most prevalent in the homeless population?

The correct answer is Choice A: Give positive feedback when the client is assertive with staff or clients.

Choice A rationale: Clients with dependent personality disorder exhibit a pervasive and excessive need to be taken care of, leading to submissive and clinging behavior. They often struggle with making decisions, expressing their opinions, and engaging in assertive communication. By providing positive feedback when the client exhibits assertive behavior, the nurse reinforces adaptive coping strategies and encourages the development of healthy interpersonal interactions. This approach fosters independence, self-confidence, and autonomy, ultimately promoting a better quality of life for the client.

Choice B rationale: Although setting limits is crucial in managing manipulative behaviors, it is not the primary focus for clients with dependent personality disorder. These clients tend to prioritize pleasing others and avoiding conflict over exploiting or manipulating other individuals. Instead, nurses should emphasize supportive interventions that foster self-reliance and assertiveness.

Choice C rationale: Close monitoring to prevent self-mutilation is not typically associated with the management of dependent personality disorder. This intervention is more relevant for clients with borderline personality disorder or those with a history of self-harm behaviors. Clients with dependent personality disorder may exhibit passive and avoidant behaviors but are less likely to engage in acts of self-mutilation.

Choice D rationale: Discouraging flamboyant or seductive behaviors is an intervention more suited for clients with histrionic personality disorder, not dependent personality disorder. Histrionic personality disorder is characterized by excessive emotionality and attention-seeking behaviors, whereas dependent personality disorder primarily involves a lack of self-confidence and excessive reliance on others for decision-making and emotional support.

Choice A rationale:

Similar to the explanation in , this statement requires intervention. It reflects a judgmental and prescriptive approach, which is not conducive to a therapeutic conversation. It implies that the nurse knows what the client should do, undermining the client's autonomy and self-discovery process.

Choice B rationale:

Recognizing that relationship difficulties are stressful and require effort to resolve is a valid and supportive statement. It acknowledges the challenges the client is facing and does not impose a specific solution.

Choice C rationale:

Suggesting the development of a communication plan is a proactive and therapeutic response. It empowers the client to work collaboratively toward improving their marital situation.

Choice D rationale:

Encouraging the client to share more about their concerns promotes open communication and allows the nurse to better understand the client's perspective. This response is client-centered and supportive.