Hildegard Peplau came up with the phases of the nurse-patient relationship. What does the nurse address during the orientation phase with a patient diagnosed with a psychiatric disorder?

Choice A reason: In Peplau’s orientation phase, the nurse establishes trust, fosters collaboration, and sets boundaries to build a therapeutic relationship. This foundation is critical for patients with psychiatric disorders, ensuring a safe space for engagement, making this the correct choice. Choice B reason: Medication adherence is a clinical intervention addressed later, in the working phase, not orientation. The initial phase focuses on relationship-building, not specific treatments, making this choice incorrect for the orientation phase’s goals. Choice C reason: Coping skill development occurs in the working phase, after trust is established. Orientation prioritizes relationship foundations like trust and boundaries, not skill-building, making this choice incorrect for the initial nurse-patient interaction phase. Choice D reason: Long-term goals are addressed in the working or termination phases, not orientation, which focuses on establishing trust and rapport. Setting goals prematurely may hinder relationship-building, making this choice incorrect for the orientation phase.