The nurse is assessing a client with intermittent explosive disorder (IED). Which of the following findings would support a diagnosis of IED?
The nurse is assessing a client with intermittent explosive disorder (IED). Which of the following findings would support a diagnosis of IED?
A. predatory violence
[22%]
B. inattention
[3%]
C. impulsivity
[66%]
D. deceptive behavior
[9%]
Statistics
Subject/Lesson
Subject
Mental Health
Lesson
Mental Health
Client Need
Test Plan
Psychosocial Integrity
Related Topic
Mental Health Concepts
Item Type
Item Type
Knowledge/Comprehension
Explanation
Choice C is correct. IED is characterized by exhibiting episodic aggressiveness grossly disproportionate to any stressors that may have helped elicit the episodes. The symptoms, which may be spells or attacks, appear within minutes or hours and remit spontaneously and quickly regardless of duration. After each episode, the client may express remorse. The client with IED often resorts to physical or verbal assault during the episodes and may damage property, people, or animals.
Choice A is incorrect. Predatory violence is a trait of antisocial personality disorder. These individuals defy and violate societal norms through deception and often illegal behavior. IED features unplanned explosive behavior because the individual is highly impulsive and reacts to a minor provocation.
Choice B is incorrect. Inattention is not a feature of IED. Inattention is a core clinical feature of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, not IED.
Choice D is incorrect. Deceptive behavior is not a feature of IED. Deceptive behavior is a core feature of antisocial personality disorder. In this disorder, the individual defies rules and norms and often engages in illegal behavior such as fraud or violence. The individual with IED reacts explosively to a minor provocation.
Additional Info
✓ Nurses can work with clients to develop strategies for recognizing and managing impulsive reactions. Techniques such as mindfulness, deep breathing, and anger management strategies can be taught to help clients gain better control over their impulses.
✓ Collaborate with the client and the healthcare team to develop a safety plan to manage and prevent aggressive episodes. This plan should include strategies to de-escalate situations and protect the client and others from harm.
✓ Keep detailed records of the client's behavior patterns, triggers, interventions used, and outcomes. This information can guide treatment planning and provide insight into progress.
