A nurse is admitting an older adult client to the unit who has a suspected cognitive disorder. Which of the following inventories should be included as part of the admission assessment?

The correct answer is choice C. Suspended from school several times in the past year.

Choice A rationale:

The client's father's recent death (Choice A) is not a typical expected assessment finding of conduct disorder. While emotional disturbances can be associated with conduct disorder, the primary characteristics involve behavioral issues rather than reactions to significant life events.

Choice B rationale:

Adhering strictly to routines (Choice B) is not a common expected assessment finding of conduct disorder. Conduct disorder is characterized by patterns of defiant and disruptive behaviors, not necessarily a rigid adherence to routines.

Choice C rationale:

Suspended from school several times in the past year (Choice C) aligns with the expected assessment findings of conduct disorder. Conduct disorder often involves aggressive behavior towards others, violation of rules, and disregard for the rights of others, which can lead to disciplinary actions such as school suspensions.

Choice D rationale:

Experiencing frequent facial tics (Choice D) is not a typical expected assessment finding of conduct disorder. Facial tics are associated with conditions like Tourette's syndrome or other tic disorders, not conduct disorder.

Choice A rationale:

The ethical concept of autonomy centers on respecting an individual's right to make decisions about their own care, even if those decisions go against medical advice. By supporting the client's wish to refuse prescribed medications, the nurse is upholding the principle of autonomy. In mental health care, it is crucial to acknowledge and respect the client's right to make choices about their treatment, even if those choices might not align with the healthcare provider's recommendations. This action promotes patient empowerment and informed decision-making.

Choice B rationale:

While client feedback about satisfaction with the facility experience is important for quality improvement, it is not directly related to the ethical concept of autonomy. Autonomy pertains to the client's right to make decisions about their treatment and care, particularly when it comes to medical interventions and choices about their own body.

Choice C rationale:

Ensuring that the client understands expectations for client participation is more aligned with the principle of informed consent and effective communication rather than autonomy. While communication is important for respecting the client's autonomy, this choice does not directly demonstrate the core concept of allowing the client to make decisions about their treatment even if they differ from medical advice.

Choice D rationale:

Explaining unit rules and policies regarding unacceptable behaviors is related to maintaining a safe and structured environment within the psychiatric unit, but it does not directly reflect the ethical concept of autonomy. Autonomy pertains to decisions specifically related to the client's medical treatment and care, not just the rules of the unit.