A 22-year-old client with schizophrenia was just admitted to the inpatient unit. While assessing the client, the nurse notes that the client is staring at a staff member intensely with a flat affect. The client is mumbling and the client's limbs are in constant motion (bouncing knee up and down and tapping fingers). Without further data, which observation is most indicative of the client's potential for violence?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Intense staring is often a warning sign for potential violence in clients with schizophrenia. The presence of a flat affect or constant motion may be indicative of the client's emotional state or level of anxiety, but are not necessarily linked to violent behavior. Mumbling may also not be specifically linked to violence.

A 22-Year-Old Client with Schizophrenia Was Just Admitted to the Inpatient