Borderline personality disorder (BPD) patients present a diffuse pattern of unstable interpersonal relations, self-image, affection and considerable impulsiveness.

Describe the circumstances related to prolonged hospitalization of a BPD patient; denote doubts, difficulties, polemics and feelings generated in the care team when managing this situation; and seeking scientific literature support on BPD.

Understand the circumstances related to prolonged hospitalization of a BPD patient and the effects of this situation on the care team.

An exploratory and descriptive research was carried out at the Psychiatric Ward at Ribeirão Preto Medical School Hospital of the University of São Paulo, Brazil. Interviews with five professionals were submitted to thematic content analysis and data from the patient's file were presented as a case report.

Two categories emerged from the interviews. “Team management in conducting the case”: divergencees in case conduction, bad feelings and counter-transference; the patient made demands and wanted to break rules. “Family abandonment”: although ready for discharge, the patient remained hospitalized due to lack of family and economic support. The only alternative was her transfer to a psychiatric hospital. Despite the difficulties, the team considered the experience gained in conducting the case was positive.

Investments are needed in programs aimed at better preparing the family to understand and welcome the patient after discharge from hospital. Moreover, greater cooperation is needed among the social structures of health care, patients and family members.