A nurse on an inpatient unit is caring for a group of clients who have depression. When planning care, which of the following clients should the nurse see first?
Explanation & Rationale
A. A client with premenstrual dysphoric disorder is typically stable once admitted and is unlikely to have immediate safety concerns, so they do not require first priority. B. A client on day 2 with disruptive mood dysregulation disorder may have mood instability, but unless there are acute safety concerns, they are not the highest priority. C. A client with dysthymic disorder has a chronic, mild depression and is usually medically stable, making them a lower priority for initial assessment. D. A newly admitted client with bipolar I disorder may be experiencing acute mania or severe depression and is at higher risk for safety issues, impulsivity, or harm to self or others. Newly admitted clients always require a comprehensive initial assessment to identify urgent needs and potential risks, making them the priority.