A nurse is planning care for a client who has experienced partner violence. The nurse should identify which of the following outcomes as the priority?

Choice A reason: Identifying support systems is important for long-term recovery and emotional resilience, but it is not the immediate priority in the context of partner violence. Safety must be established first. Choice B reason: Stress reduction techniques are beneficial for coping and healing, but they do not address the immediate risk of harm. They are secondary to ensuring physical safety. Choice C reason: Joining a group can provide emotional support and validation, but it is not appropriate until the client is safe and stable. Group participation may also expose the client to further emotional vulnerability if safety is not secured. Choice D reason: Developing a safety plan is the priority because it directly addresses the risk of ongoing harm. It includes identifying safe places, emergency contacts, and steps to take during a crisis. This outcome is essential for protecting the client from further abuse and is the foundation for all other interventions.