What should the nurse assess first in a newly admitted client with schizophrenia experiencing acute symptoms?

In cases of a newly admitted client with schizophrenia experiencing acute symptoms, assessing the client's stability and safety is paramount. This is crucial because individuals in acute psychosis may present with altered perceptions, impaired judgment, and potentially unpredictable behavior, which can pose a risk to themselves or others. Ensuring the client's safety involves evaluating for any suicidal or homicidal ideations, as well as monitoring for potential self-harm or aggression.

Once safety and stability are assured, further assessments can be made regarding communication abilities, medication compliance, and family history. However, the immediate priority is to ensure that the client is in a safe environment, as acute symptoms can greatly affect the individual's ability to make sound decisions and may lead to crises if not addressed promptly.