A nurse is reviewing the history and physical of an adolescent client diagnosed with conduct disorder. The nurse recognizes that which of the following is an expected assessment finding of conduct disorder?

Choice A rationale:

Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder characterized by alternating periods of depression and mania. While mental health issues can certainly be prevalent among the homeless population, bipolar disorder may not be the most prevalent in this context. Homelessness often exposes individuals to harsh living conditions, which might contribute to mood disturbances, but substance addiction is more commonly associated with this population.

Choice B rationale:

Depression is a significant concern among homeless individuals due to the many challenges they face, but substance addiction is generally more prevalent. Substance abuse often becomes a coping mechanism for dealing with the stressors of homelessness, making it a primary concern in this population.

Choice C rationale:

Substance addiction is a critical mental health issue that is highly prevalent among homeless individuals. The stress, trauma, and lack of stable support systems experienced by the homeless population contribute to a higher risk of substance abuse as a way to cope with their circumstances.

Choice D rationale:

Schizophrenia involves a disconnection from reality, including symptoms like hallucinations and delusions. While schizophrenia can certainly affect homeless individuals, substance addiction remains a more widespread concern due to its association with the challenges of homelessness.

Choice A rationale:

Misplacing car keys is a common occurrence in many people's lives and is not necessarily indicative of Alzheimer's disease. It can happen to anyone due to various factors like stress or distraction.

Choice B rationale:

Difficulty performing familiar tasks is a potential early warning sign of Alzheimer's disease. This can include tasks that the person previously did with ease, such as cooking or dressing themselves. Alzheimer's disease affects cognitive abilities, including the ability to perform familiar tasks.

Choice C rationale:

Losing sense of time is another potential early warning sign of Alzheimer's disease. People with Alzheimer's may lose track of days or seasons, as the disease impacts their sense of time and memory.

Choice D rationale:

Problems with performing basic calculations can be a sign of cognitive decline, but it is not one of the primary early warning signs of Alzheimer's disease. This choice is less specific to Alzheimer's and could be related to other cognitive disorders as well.

Choice E rationale:

Becoming lost in a usually familiar environment is a significant early warning sign of Alzheimer's disease. Individuals with Alzheimer's may become disoriented even in places they know well, leading to confusion and anxiety. This is a result of the disease affecting their spatial memory and navigation skills.