HESI Mental Health Practice Exam Related

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A female client with borderline personality disorder expresses fear of being abandoned by the nursing staff. What is the best nursing intervention?

  • A. Reassure the client that she will not be abandoned.
  • B. Set limits on the client's behavior and enforce them consistently.
  • C. Encourage the client to talk about her fears.
  • D. Rotate the nursing staff assigned to the client frequently.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The best nursing intervention for a client with borderline personality disorder expressing fear of abandonment is to set limits on the client's behavior and enforce them consistently. This approach helps establish boundaries and provides a sense of security for the client. Choice A may provide temporary reassurance but does not address the core issue or help the client develop coping strategies. Choice C is important but should be accompanied by setting limits to address the underlying fear of abandonment. Choice D of rotating staff frequently can exacerbate the client's fear of abandonment by reinforcing the idea of being left.