In which phase of the therapeutic nurse-patient relationship are the patient problems noted, and coping skills identified

Appeared in: MNS 2024

Explanation

The introductory (or orientation) phase is the initial encounter between the nurse and the patient.
During this phase, the nurse's primary responsibility is to conduct a thorough assessment.
This assessment includes gathering data, identifying the patient's presenting problems, and recognizing their existing strengths and coping skills.
This information forms the basis for formulating nursing diagnoses and developing a collaborative care plan.
Establishing trust and rapport is a critical component of this phase to ensure a successful therapeutic alliance.

Option B: The working phase is incorrect because it focuses on actively implementing the care plan, solving problems, and developing new coping skills, rather than the initial identification of problems and existing skills.
Option C: The termination phase is incorrect as it is the final stage of the relationship. Its purpose is to review the progress made, evaluate the achievement of goals, and prepare for the end of the therapeutic relationship.
Option D: The pre-introductory (or pre-interaction) phase is incorrect because it occurs before the nurse meets the patient. During this time, the nurse reviews patient data and performs self-assessment.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: Use the key finding related to Phases of the therapeutic nurse-patient relationship to guide bedside assessment, documentation, and the next nursing action.
A thorough introductory phase is the foundation of all effective nursing care. Failure to accurately identify problems and build trust at this stage can compromise the entire therapeutic process.
Nurses must use strong assessment and communication skills to elicit sensitive information about a patient's problems and coping mechanisms, which may not always be obvious.
What if? If a nurse rushes the introductory phase and makes assumptions about a patient's problems without proper assessment, the resulting care plan will be ineffective, leading to poor patient outcomes and a breakdown of trust.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the keywords in the question: 'phase,' 'nurse-patient relationship,' 'problems noted,' and 'coping skills identified.'
The question is asking about the initial assessment and data-gathering stage of the relationship.
Recall the four phases of the therapeutic relationship: Pre-introductory, Introductory (Orientation), Working, and Termination.
Consider the primary purpose of each phase.
The Pre-introductory phase is for preparation before meeting the patient.
The Introductory/Orientation phase is for assessment, building rapport, and defining problems.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Phases of the therapeutic nurse-patient relationship
Stem keywords: therapeutic nurse-patient relationship, patient problems, coping skills
Lead-in keywords: In which phase
Negative lead-in flag: false

Q2HoV_96GI0Y4DRrYE54CF

E6 Nursing Fundamentals Potter Perry 12e Part 2 p. 115-117

E6 Guide to Mental Health & PSYCHIATRIC NURSING R Sreevani— Part 1 (pp 26-289 of 579) p. 108-110

Practise the full MNS 2024

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.