An 85-year-old client is seen in the Emergency Department after a fall at home. The client is slightly confused malnourished and severely dehydrated. The client is reluctant to say what happened and her daughter constantly interrupts not allowing the client to answer. Which of the following nursing interventions is a priority?

The correct answer is D: Interview the client alone and assess for abuse. This is the priority intervention because the client's confusion, malnourishment, dehydration, and reluctance to speak may indicate potential abuse. By interviewing the client alone, the nurse can establish trust, assess for signs of physical or emotional abuse, and ensure the client's safety. Providing nutritional counseling (Option A) is important but not the priority in this situation. Requesting a psychiatric evaluation (Option B) may be necessary later but does not address the immediate safety concern. Taking the history from the daughter (Option C) may not allow the client to express herself freely.