Which of the following should a nurse prioritize when assessing a patient with signs of addiction?

Prioritizing the assessment of patient history is crucial when dealing with a patient exhibiting signs of addiction for several reasons. Understanding the patient's background, including their substance use history, previous treatments, and any co-occurring mental health conditions, provides valuable context that can inform the nursing and treatment approach. This information helps in identifying the extent of the addiction, potential risk factors, and any underlying issues that may require immediate attention.

Furthermore, comprehensive patient history allows for a more personalized care plan, addressing individual needs and likely triggers for substance use. The insights gained from this assessment can also help in establishing rapport with the patient, as it demonstrates an interest in their well-being and encourages open communication.

While observing for aggressive behavior and focusing on social activities can be relevant in certain contexts, they do not provide the foundational information necessary to guide effective intervention in cases of addiction. Assuming there are no issues without thorough assessment would neglect the possibility of underlying addiction problems and compromise patient safety and care effectiveness. Therefore, gathering an accurate and complete patient history stands out as the most important initial step in the assessment process for addiction.