In which phase of the therapeutic relationship does the nurse establish trust with the patient?

The establishment of trust is a foundational aspect that occurs during the orientation phase of the therapeutic relationship. In this initial phase, the nurse begins to build rapport with the patient, engaging in introductions and creating a safe and supportive environment. This includes discussing the purpose of the relationship, setting mutual goals, and outlining confidentiality, all of which contribute to developing trust.

The focus is on fostering an atmosphere where the patient feels comfortable sharing personal thoughts and feelings, which is crucial for effective therapeutic communication. Trust is essential in any therapeutic relationship, as it allows the patient to feel secure and open, thereby promoting better engagement in their care.

While the working phase involves more active problem-solving and the application of interventions, it is built upon the trust established during the orientation phase. The termination phase, on the other hand, is when the relationship is brought to a close, and the focus shifts to summarizing the progress made. The assessment phase involves gathering information and does not specifically target trust-building in the same manner as the orientation phase.