A patient diagnosed with borderline personality disorder has been hospitalized several times after self-inflicted lacerations. The patient remains impulsive. Dialectical behavior therapy starts on an outpatient basis. Which nursing diagnosis is the focus of this therapy?

A) Risk for self-mutilation
B) Impaired skin integrity
C) Risk for injury
D) Powerlessness

Dialectical Behavior Therapy

A type of cognitive-behavioral therapy aimed at teaching patients skills to cope with stress, regulate emotions, and improve relationships.

Self-Mutilation

The act of deliberately harming one's own body without suicidal intent, often as a coping mechanism for emotional distress.

Impulsive

The tendency to act on a whim, displaying behavior characterized by little or no forethought, reflection, or consideration of the consequences.