Which of the following behaviors is most characteristic of a client with borderline personality disorder that a nurse should be prepared to address?

• A. Exhibiting rigid perfectionism and a preoccupation with orderliness
• B. Demonstrating persistent grandiosity and a lack of empathy for others
• C. Showing a pervasive distrust and suspicion of others' motives
• D. Engaging in impulsive actions and displaying unstable interpersonal relationships

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the core features of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). BPD is primarily characterized by instability in interpersonal relationships, self-image, and emotions, along with impulsive behaviors.
2. Step 2: Review the behaviors listed in the problem and identify which align with BPD symptoms. For example, rigid perfectionism and preoccupation with orderliness are more typical of Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder, not BPD.
3. Step 3: Recognize that persistent grandiosity and lack of empathy are hallmark traits of Narcissistic Personality Disorder, which differs from BPD.
4. Step 4: Note that pervasive distrust and suspicion of others' motives are characteristic of Paranoid Personality Disorder, not BPD.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the behavior most characteristic of BPD involves impulsive actions and unstable interpersonal relationships, which the nurse should be prepared to address.