Recognizing borderline personality disorder in the primary care client

The nurse practitioner is responsible for the diagnosis and treatment of a great variety of physical and psychological disorders in the ambulatory client. Frequently the diagnosis of personality disorder is missed, ignored or not even considered. This article will introduce the nurse practitioner to the various personality disorders. The main focus, borderline personality disorder, is estimated to affect 5 to 15 percent of the general population. A picture of the borderline client from etiology to treatment as well as recent research findings and suggestions for history taking and physical exam are covered. Borderline has been a difficult and confusing diagnosis to make because in the past the term has had several different meanings. This article will clarify what this diagnosis means, and will assist the nurse practitioner in the recognition, diagnosis and management of all clients with personality disorders.