A nurse practicing Peplau’s Relations Theory is working with a newly admitted client who is withdrawn and reluctant to engage. According to Peplau’s working model, which nurse action best explains the orientation phase of the nurse-client relationship?

Focusing solely on medication administration to stabilize symptoms before building rapport.

Encouraging the client to express feelings freely without providing guidance.

Maintaining professional distance to avoid fostering dependency.

Establishing trust through consistent, honest communication and clarifying the client’s expectations.