Final answer:
The nurse's priority nursing assessment for a client admitted to a psychiatric hospital with schizophrenia and physical care needs should focus on the client's Physical Needs first.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a client is admitted to a psychiatric hospital with a diagnosis of schizophrenia and presents with a limp, unhygienic appearance, and signs of active hallucinations, the nurse's priority nursing assessment should be to address the client's Physical Needs. This is crucial because the client's limp and unkempt state could be indicative of immediate physical health issues or neglect that need to be attended to before effectively addressing psychiatric symptoms. Furthermore, assessing the physical condition can also provide insights into the exacerbation of psychiatric symptoms.
Although Perception of reality, Support system/Emergency contacts, and Mental Status are all important considerations in the care of a client with schizophrenia, the immediate physical well-being must be ensured to stabilize the client and make it possible to address other needs. Once physical health concerns are managed, attention can be turned to ongoing psychiatric assessment and treatment.