In which phase of nurse-patient interaction does problem defining occur?

In nurse-patient interaction, the orientation phase is where problem defining occurs. During this initial phase, the nurse and patient come together to establish a rapport, clarify the purpose of their interaction, and define the patient's concerns or problems. This is critical for effective communication and sets the groundwork for a therapeutic relationship.

In this phase, the nurse gathers information about the patient’s health status and begins to identify the specific issues that need attention. This is where the nurse actively listens to the patient and encourages them to express their feelings and thoughts, leading to a clearer understanding of the problems at hand. This identification of issues is essential for developing a tailored care plan and for the patient to feel heard and understood, which is integral to building trust.

The other phases, while vital to the overall process of nurse-patient interaction, focus on different objectives—such as exploring solutions, implementing care, and evaluating outcomes—which occur after the initial problem has been defined in the orientation phase.