Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

Which nursing diagnosis might apply to a female patient with a delusional disorder experiencing conflicts with her spouse?

1. Disturbed thought processes

2. Interrupted family processes

3. Risk for self-harm

4. Impaired social interaction

The correct answer is: Interrupted family processes

The appropriate nursing diagnosis for a female patient with a delusional disorder experiencing conflicts with her spouse is related to the dynamic within the family unit. "Interrupted family processes" reflects the disruption in the normal functioning and interactions of the family due to the delusional disorder. When a patient is experiencing delusions, it can lead to misunderstandings, communication breakdowns, and emotional distance within the family. These factors can cause significant stress and conflict, impacting not only the patient but also the spouse and other family members. Addressing this diagnosis is crucial, as it highlights the need for interventions that can restore healthy communication and improve relationships within the family unit. This may involve family therapy or counseling to help resolve conflicts and rebuild trust and understanding between the patient and her spouse. In contrast, other diagnoses do not fully capture the specific relational and functional disruptions occurring as a result of the delusional disorder and conflicts with the spouse. Thus, the designation of "interrupted family processes" is the most relevant in this context.