A client admitted to the inpatient unit has a diagnosis of schizophrenia, residual type. The nursing diagnosis that has the highest priority for this client is:

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The client with schizophrenia, residual type can experience periods of remission, but still experiences persistent negative symptoms such as anhedonia, apathy, and social withdrawal. Although all options are pertinent to the client's care, the highest priority nursing diagnosis for this type of client would be the risk for violence, either directed towards themselves or others. This is due to the potential for psychotic episodes, command hallucinations, and delusions that can lead to impulsive and dangerous behavior. The nurse's intervention must focus on maintaining a safe environment for the client and other patients while promoting a therapeutic relationship to prevent an escalation in the risk of violence.

A Client Admitted to the Inpatient Unit Has a Diagnosis