Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 72%
Simulated
A nurse is caring for a client with paranoid personality disorder who is extremely suspicious of the nursing staff and other clients. Which of the following nursing approaches is appropriate when establishing a therapeutic relationship with this client?
Correct answer
C
Rationale
The correct answer is C: Adopt a neutral attitude when providing care. This approach is appropriate because individuals with paranoid personality disorder often have difficulty trusting others and may perceive well-intentioned behaviors as threatening. By adopting a neutral attitude, the nurse can avoid triggering the client's suspicions or fears, thus creating a safe environment for building trust.
Disclosing personal information (A) may inadvertently lead to further mistrust as the client may perceive it as manipulative. Approaching the client frequently (B) may be overwhelming and increase the client's suspicion. Waiting for the client to initiate interaction (D) may result in a lack of engagement, further reinforcing the client's distrust.
Disclosing personal information (A) may inadvertently lead to further mistrust as the client may perceive it as manipulative. Approaching the client frequently (B) may be overwhelming and increase the client's suspicion. Waiting for the client to initiate interaction (D) may result in a lack of engagement, further reinforcing the client's distrust.