A nurse is performing an admission assessment for a client who is receiving treatment following a situational crisis. Which of the following assessments by the nurse is the highest priority?

Fine hand tremors and pill rolling are not indicative of tardive dyskinesia. These symptoms are more commonly associated with other neurological or movement disorders.

B. Urinary retention and constipation:

Urinary retention and constipation are not symptoms of tardive dyskinesia. These symptoms are more related to anticholinergic effects of certain medications.

C. Facial grimacing and eye blinking:

Facial grimacing and repetitive, involuntary movements such as eye blinking are characteristic of tardive dyskinesia. These abnormal movements of the face and eyes are commonly seen in individuals who have been on long-term antipsychotic medications, especially older ones like haloperidol.

D. Involuntary pelvic rocking and hip thrusting movements:

Involuntary pelvic rocking and hip thrusting movements are not typical symptoms of tardive dyskinesia. These types of movements are less associated with antipsychotic-induced movement disorders.

E. Tongue thrusting and lip-smacking:

Tongue thrusting and lip-smacking are classic symptoms of tardive dyskinesia. These repetitive, involuntary movements involving the mouth and tongue are often observed in individuals who have been on antipsychotic medications for an extended period of time.

A. Discuss the problem in a community meeting with the other clients on the unit present.

While open communication and community meetings can be valuable in certain situations, discussing a client's disruptive behavior in front of others may breach their privacy and dignity. It's important to address such matters privately and respectfully.

B. Escort the client to her room each time the nurse observes the client socializing with other clients.

This action might be seen as overly punitive and restrictive. Isolating the client based on their behavior without addressing the underlying issues doesn't promote a therapeutic approach to the situation.

C. Talk to the client and identify the specific limits that are required of the client's behavior.

This is the correct option. Talking to the client directly allows the nurse to address the behavior, express expectations, and set clear boundaries. This approach promotes open communication and gives the client a chance to understand how their actions are affecting others.

D. Tell the other clients to ignore the client's lies.

While it's important to encourage other clients to manage their reactions to disruptive behavior, simply telling them to ignore lies might not address the root cause of the issue. The nurse should aim to address the behavior itself and create an environment where all clients feel respected and safe.