A patient with paranoid personality disorder has had treatment adjusted. Which action is appropriate for the nurse in response to the provider’s change?

• A. Request another staff member verify the visitor's identity
• B. Allow the visitor in if they claim relation
• C. Ignore concerns about safety
• D. Ask for their name and relation

Answer: (A)

When a patient with paranoid personality traits experiences a change in treatment, safety and trust become central concerns. These individuals are highly suspicious and may misinterpret staff actions or visitors as threatening. Verifying a visitor’s identity with another staff member provides an objective safeguard, ensuring that only authorized people are allowed access and reducing opportunities for manipulation or harm. This approach also reinforces consistent safety procedures, helping the patient feel protected during a period of transition.

Allowing a visitor in based solely on a claim of relation could expose the patient to risk if the person is not truly authorized. Ignoring safety concerns is inappropriate and could heighten anxiety or volatility. Asking for a name and relation offers some information but does not provide the verifiable confirmation that another staff member can supply, so it doesn’t fully address the risk in this context.