Which self-reflective intervention is most appropriate for the nurse to engage in when managing care for patients who exhibit characteristics of personality disorders?

Question

a. Reinforcing the therapeutic boundaries between the nurse and patient as often as needed
b. Requesting a temporary transfer to a medical unit periodically to help minimize burn-out
c. Frequently self-assessing for biases and prejudices that result in patient care that is compromised
d. Arriving at a personal decision regarding the use of both chemical and physical restraints to assure milieu safety.

Answer 1

ANS: A
Patients with personality disorders have difficulty relating to others. As a consequence, these individuals have difficulty defining boundaries between themselves and others. Part of nurs-ing care is to define boundaries within the therapeutic relationship in order to develop safe, patient-centered therapeutic relationships. The use of chemical and/or physical restraints is determined by institutional policies, not personal decision. The remaining options are appro-priate for all patient care, not specifically care of patients with personality disorders.