Question

A client is sent to the psychiatric unit for forensic evaluation after he is accused of arson. His tentative diagnosis is antisocial personality disorder. In reviewing the client's record, the nurse could expect to find: A. A history of consistent employment B. A below-average intelligence C. A history of cruelty to animals D. An expression of remorse for his actions

Short answer

A) A history of consistent employment B) A below-average intelligence C) A history of cruelty to animals D) An expression of remorse for his actions Answer: C) A history of cruelty to animals

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Antisocial Personality Disorder

Antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) is a mental health condition characterized by a long-term pattern of disregard for, and violation of, the rights of others. Individuals with ASPD may exhibit various symptoms or behaviors, such as deceitfulness, manipulation, impulsiveness, aggression, irresponsibility, and lack of empathy or remorse for their actions.

Evaluating Option A

Option A states "A history of consistent employment." However, individuals with antisocial personality disorder are often irresponsible and may have difficulty maintaining consistent employment. Therefore, this option is not in line with the characteristics of ASPD.

Evaluating Option B

Option B states "A below-average intelligence". Intelligence does not necessarily correlate with antisocial personality disorder, as individuals with this disorder can have average or above-average intelligence. Therefore, this option is not consistent with the characteristics of ASPD.

Evaluating Option C

Option C states "A history of cruelty to animals". Individuals with antisocial personality disorder may exhibit aggressive behavior and a lack of empathy for others, which could manifest as cruelty to animals. This option is consistent with the characteristics of ASPD and should be considered as a potential answer.

Evaluating Option D

Option D states "An expression of remorse for his actions." This option is inconsistent with the characteristics of antisocial personality disorder, as individuals with ASPD often lack remorse for their actions and are not likely to express genuine regret.

Choosing the Correct Answer

Based on the analysis of each option, we can conclude that Option C, "A history of cruelty to animals," is the most consistent with the characteristics of antisocial personality disorder and would likely be found in the client's record. Therefore, the correct answer is C.

Key concepts

Psychiatric Nursing

Psychiatric nursing is a specialized area within the nursing field where nurses care for patients suffering from mental health disorders. In dealing with conditions like antisocial personality disorder (ASPD), psychiatric nurses play a critical role. They use a holistic approach that considers the patient's physical, psychological, social, and spiritual needs.

A nurse's expertise in this area is vital for building therapeutic relationships with patients, providing counseling, administering medications, and teaching coping strategies to both patients and their families. With ASPD, the focus may involve setting boundaries, managing difficult behaviors, and preventing harm, while also advocating for the patient's needs.

Forensic Evaluation in Nursing

Forensic evaluation in nursing refers to the assessment of individuals who are, in some way, involved with the legal system. When a nurse conducts a forensic evaluation, especially for someone with a suspected diagnosis like antisocial personality disorder, the evaluation will focus on the individual's history, behavior, and mental state.

This involves meticulously reviewing records and conducting interviews to determine the individual's mental health condition and the potential risks they may pose. Nurses may look for patterns of behavior, such as indifference to the welfare of others, impulsiveness, and unlawfulness, which are indicative of ASPD. The goal of forensic nursing is to provide a clear understanding of the individual's psychological profile to legal professionals.

Behavioral Symptoms of ASPD

Antisocial personality disorder is characterized by a pattern of behavior that is socially irresponsible, exploitative, and without remorse. When it comes to the behavioral symptoms of ASPD, individuals commonly exhibit actions that disregard the rights and feelings of others.

These symptoms can include frequent lying and deception, manipulation for personal gain or pleasure, impulsivity, aggression or irritability, disregard for the safety of oneself or others, and a lack of guilt or remorse after harming others. In a forensic setting, these behaviors are assessed closely, as they can inform risk assessments and treatment planning. Recognizing these behaviors can also support accurate diagnosis and effective therapeutic interventions.