Question

A client who frequently exhibits angry outbursts is diagnosed with antisocial personality disorder. Which appropriate feedback should a nurse provide when this client experiences an angry outburst?

A. "Why do you continue to alienate your peers by your angry outbursts?"
B. "You accomplish nothing when you lose your temper like that."
C. "Showing your anger in that manner is very childish and insensitive."
D. "During group, you raised your voice, yelled at a peer, left, and slammed the door."

Answer 1

The appropriate feedback for a client with antisocial personality disorder who exhibits an angry outburst, as described in a nursing scenario, is option D, which is objective and descriptive of the client's behavior without judgment or labeling.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a client diagnosed with antisocial personality disorder experiences an angry outburst, it is important for a nurse to provide feedback that is specific, non-judgmental, and focused on the behavior rather than the person.

Option D, "During group, you raised your voice, yelled at a peer, left, and slammed the door." is an appropriate response. This statement is descriptive and objective, simply recounting the client's actions without labeling or criticising the client.

Recognizing that anger and hostility can lead to long-term health risks such as heart disease, especially in those exhibiting Type A behavior patterns, it is crucial to address these behaviors in a clinical setting in order to discourage further aggressive actions and potentially lower the risk of adverse cardiovascular outcomes.