The forensic psychiatric nurse oftentimes has conflicting goals when providing psychiatric care while serving the legal system. Which situation best demonstrates this conflict?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because it demonstrates the conflict between providing psychiatric care and serving the legal system. In this scenario, the nurse must assess a patient with paranoid schizophrenia who committed a violent act due to delusions. The nurse needs to balance the patient's mental health needs with addressing the legal implications of the violent behavior.
Choice B involves caring for a rape victim and preserving evidence, which aligns with both nursing and legal responsibilities. Choice C focuses on providing therapy to offenders, which does not inherently present a conflict between psychiatric care and legal duties. Choice D involves conducting a depression screening for a prisoner, which is important for mental health care but does not inherently involve a conflict with legal obligations.