A nurse is caring for a client who has schizophrenia. Which of the following findings indicates that the client is in the prodromal phase?

A. Incoherent speech. Incoherent speech is more characteristic of acute episodes of schizophrenia rather than the prodromal phase. During the prodromal phase, symptoms are typically less severe and may not include full-blown disorganized thinking. B. Severe delusions. Severe delusions are indicative of an active psychotic phase of schizophrenia. The prodromal phase generally involves milder symptoms that precede the onset of more severe psychotic episodes. C. Withdrawn behavior. The prodromal phase of schizophrenia is often marked by subtle changes in behavior, including social withdrawal, decline in self-care, and changes in functioning. Withdrawn behavior is a common manifestation during this phase, signaling the beginning of deterioration before the onset of more intense symptoms. D. Frequent hallucinations. Hallucinations are more commonly seen during the active phase of schizophrenia rather than the prodromal phase. In this early stage, clients may experience less intense symptoms and may not exhibit frequent or vivid hallucinations.