What type of assessment is being conducted when a nurse asks a patient about their previous living situation and social interactions?

A psychosocial assessment is focused on understanding a patient's social, emotional, and psychological well-being. When a nurse inquires about a patient's previous living situation and social interactions, they are gathering important information about the patient’s social support systems, relationships, and overall quality of life. This type of assessment helps healthcare providers identify factors that could affect the patient's health and recovery, such as social isolation, support from family and friends, and living conditions.

In contrast, a physical health assessment would concentrate on the patient's bodily functions and any signs of illness. A nutritional assessment would evaluate dietary habits and nutritional status, while a mental status evaluation focuses specifically on cognitive functioning and mental health symptoms. Thus, the context of the question clearly aligns with the objectives of a psychosocial assessment, making it the correct choice.