The nurse has recently set limits for a client with borderline personality disorder. The client tells the nurse, "You used to care about me. I thought you were wonderful. Now I can see that I was mistaken. You are hateful." This outburst can be assessed as:
denial.
separation-individuation.
splitting.
reaction formation.
The Correct Answer is C
C. Splitting is characterized by viewing people and situations in extremes, either all good or all bad, without recognizing the complexity that usually exists in most circumstances. This black-and-white thinking can lead to rapidly shifting perceptions of others, as seen in the client's sudden change from idealizing the nurse to devaluing them.
A. Denial is a defense mechanism where the individual refuses to accept reality or acknowledge an aspect of reality that is apparent to others. In this scenario, the client is not denying any aspect of reality.
B. Separation-individuation is a developmental process where individuals establish autonomy and a sense of self separate from others, particularly from primary caregivers. This process is more relevant in infancy and early childhood.
D. Reaction formation is a defense mechanism where an individual behaves in a manner opposite to their true feelings or impulses. In this scenario, the client's expression of hatred towards the nurse does not appear to be a case of reaction formation, as there is no indication that the client actually harbors feelings of care or admiration towards the nurse.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
B. It acknowledges that recovery is not a quick fix or a one-time event but rather a lifelong journey that involves ongoing effort, self-awareness, and personal growth. Recognizing that recovery occurs in steps suggests an understanding of the incremental progress and challenges that may be encountered along the way.
A. This statement demonstrates some understanding of the concept of recovery from alcohol abuse, but it may not fully reflect the comprehensive nature of recovery.
C. Al-Anon is a mutual support program for people affected by someone else's alcoholism, typically family members and friends. This does not directly involve the client.
D. Detoxification, or the process of clearing alcohol and its byproducts from the body, is an important initial step in recovery, but it is not synonymous with recovery itself.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
B. Individuals with borderline personality disorder may exhibit behavior that generates conflict among staff members or within their interpersonal relationships. They may have difficulty regulating emotions, experience intense mood swings, and engage in impulsive or manipulative behaviors that contribute to conflicts with others.
A. Individuals with borderline personality disorder often struggle with interpersonal relationships and may have difficulty maintaining stable and healthy connections with others.
C. Suspiciousness of others is not a primary characteristic of borderline personality disorder.
D. Bizarre speech patterns are not typically associated with borderline personality disorder.

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