Which nursing diagnosis should be prioritized when providing care to a client diagnosed with paranoid personality disorder?
Social isolation RUT inability to relate to others
Risk for suicide R/T altered thought
Altered sensory perception RUT increased levels of anxiety
Risk for violence: directed toward others R/T suspicious thoughts
The Correct Answer is D
A. Social isolation R/T inability to relate to others
While social isolation may be a concern for individuals with paranoid personality disorder, the immediate safety risk associated with the disorder is more related to the potential for violence. Therefore, addressing the risk of violence takes precedence.
B. Risk for suicide R/T altered thought:
Paranoid personality disorder is not typically associated with a high risk of suicide. Individuals with this disorder are more likely to pose a risk to others due to their suspicious thoughts and mistrust. Suicide risk assessments are crucial but may not be the top priority in this specific case.
C. Altered sensory perception R/T increased levels of anxiety:
Paranoid personality disorder does involve heightened levels of anxiety, but altered sensory perception is not a primary characteristic of the disorder. Addressing anxiety is important, but the potential for violence toward others is a more immediate concern.
D. Risk for violence: directed toward others R/T suspicious thoughts:
This is the most appropriate priority. Individuals with paranoid personality disorder may have intense mistrust and suspicion, leading to the potential for aggressive or violent behavior directed toward others. Prioritizing safety and preventing harm to others is crucial in the care of clients with this disorder.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Axons: Axons are nerve cell processes that transmit signals away from the cell body. While axons are essential for communication between nerve cells, their structure or function is not directly implicated in the altered behavior associated with schizophrenia.
B. Neurotransmitters: This is the correct answer. In schizophrenia, there is evidence of dysregulation in neurotransmitter systems, particularly dopamine. Dopamine dysregulation is associated with both positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia. In the case of negative symptoms, such as social withdrawal and reduced emotional expression, hypoactivity in dopamine pathways may play a role.
C. Dendrites: Dendrites are nerve cell processes that receive signals from other neurons. Similar to axons, dendrites are crucial for communication between nerve cells, but their structure or function is not specifically implicated in the altered behavior associated with schizophrenia.
D. Synapses: Synapses are the junctions between nerve cells where neurotransmitters are released to transmit signals. While synapses play a critical role in neurotransmission, the altered behavior in schizophrenia is more closely linked to the dysregulation of neurotransmitters, particularly dopamine, than to structural changes in synapses.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. By setting punishments for clients who violate the community rules: This approach is more authoritarian than democratic. In a democratic milieu, the emphasis is on collaboration, shared decision-making, and equal participation, rather than imposing punishments.
B. By setting expectations wherein all clients are not treated on an equal basis: This approach would be contrary to the principles of a democratic milieu. The democratic model promotes equality, inclusion, and the involvement of all clients in decision-making.
C. By setting expectations wherein all clients are treated on an equal basis: This is the correct answer. In a democratic milieu, all clients are encouraged to participate equally in decision-making processes, express their opinions, and contribute to the therapeutic community. This fosters a sense of empowerment and shared responsibility.
D. By dealing with inappropriate behaviors as they occur: While addressing inappropriate behaviors is important in any therapeutic environment, the emphasis on a democratic form of self-government goes beyond reacting to behaviors. It involves actively engaging clients in the decision-making process and promoting a collaborative and supportive community.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.