While interviewing a newly admitted older female client, the nurse observes that the client ignores questions asked by the nurse, and speaks loudly to her son who brought her to the hospital. Which action should the nurse implement first?

Stand directly in front of the client and ask about any hearing loss.

Obtain a tuning fork to complete Rinne and Weber tuning fork tests.

Begin to orient the client to her surroundings in the hospital room.

Perform a mental status exam to assess the client's thought processes.