Question

Clients with personality disorders rely on their ability to manipulate others. The nurse caring for a client with a personality disorder should: A. Allow the manipulation because it will allow the client a sense of control B. Appeal to the client's sense of reason to maintain a therapeutic milieu C. Realize that the client will not need to manipulate after a sense of trust is established D. Recognize that the client's anxiety will increase when manipulations are unsuccessful

Short answer

Answer: The most appropriate approach is to appeal to the client's sense of reason in order to maintain a therapeutic milieu. This focuses on maintaining a therapeutic environment while addressing the manipulative behavior through reasoning.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the situation

We have a client with a personality disorder who relies on their ability to manipulate others. The nurse needs to choose the best possible approach in dealing with this client.

Evaluating option A

Option A suggests allowing the manipulation because it will give the client a sense of control. However, enabling manipulation is not a therapeutic approach, as it may not address the core issue of the personality disorder and may lead to negative consequences.

Evaluating option B

Option B proposes appealing to the client's sense of reason to maintain a therapeutic milieu. This approach emphasizes the importance of creating a therapeutic environment while addressing the manipulation. This option seems promising.

Evaluating option C

Option C states that the client will not need to manipulate after a sense of trust is established. While building trust is essential in a therapeutic relationship, it may not necessarily eliminate the client's manipulative behaviors.

Evaluating option D

Option D recognizes that the client's anxiety will increase when manipulations are unsuccessful. Although addressing the client's anxiety is important, this option does not provide a clear solution for handling the manipulation itself.

Choosing the best answer

After evaluating all options, option B appears to be the most appropriate approach for a nurse caring for a client with a personality disorder who relies on manipulation. It focuses on maintaining a therapeutic environment while addressing the manipulative behavior through reasoning.