Biopsychosocial Model in Nursing Care for Borderline Personality Disorder

Nursing
Student’s name:
Institutional:

The biopsychosocial model takes into account the patient as a whole, in that, the mental illness is
a result of various factors. It is the interplay of the biological factors, psychological factors and
the social factors that surrounds the individual (Sarafino and Smith 2014.) Nurses and other
medical workers nowadays prefer approaching medical conditions using this model since it
allows for a total evaluation of the patient, comprehensive assessment and contribute towards
achieving a more individualized care. It allows the recognition of each patient regardless of the
condition as unique from the other. Mathew, a 30-year-old man with borderline personality
disorder will be provided nursing care using this model as discussed below. It is a mental illness
that is characterized by pattern of varying moods, behavior and self-image (Leichsenring et.al
2011, pp. 74-84).
Biological factors
Mathew has previously been diagnosed with alcohol use disorder. There has been a number of
studies that have proven that genetic factors are associated with borderline personality disorder
(Chanen, and Kaess 2012, pp.45-53). Impulse aggression has also been found to run in families
belonging to people who have been diagnosed with this disorder. The biological influence on
behavior can also been seen in the temperament phenomena. The nurse must therefore look into
such factors and let Matthew beware of them. These will be in form of patient education. Some
drugs such as mood stabilizers, serotonin reuptake inhibitors and antipsychotics can be used to
alleviate the symptoms of borderline personality disorder. Topiramate and lamotrigine, which are
anticonvulsants are also helpful in treating seizures or migraine.
Psychological factors