The nurse admits a client who is suspected of having delusional disorder. What assessment finding of the client is supportive of this diagnosis?
Correct Answer Rationale: Delusional disorder is characterized by the presence of non-bizarre delusions (beliefs that could happen in real life but are not true) that last for at least one month. The client's belief about being the real pope and having their identity stolen reflects a fixed false belief that is not supported by reality (grandiose delusion) lasting more than one month.
Question 2
A client presents to the outpatient clinic and insists that a neighbor has been poisoning their food for several weeks, despite normal lab results and no evidence to support this belief. The client has no hallucinations and no significant mood symptoms. Which assessment finding would support a diagnosis of delusional disorder?
Correct Answer Rationale: Delusional disorder is characterized by a fixed, false belief lasting at least one month without other prominent psychotic features such as hallucinations or mood symptoms, and without significant impairment in daily functioning.
Question 3
A client with delusional disorder presents with a fixed belief that they have been chosen to lead a new religious movement. Which statement from the client would be most characteristic of a grandiose delusion?
Correct Answer Rationale: Grandiose delusions involve exaggerated beliefs about one's importance, abilities, or identity, such as believing that one has a special mission or power. The client's belief in being chosen to lead a religious movement is a form of grandiosity.