During the admission assessment of a client with bipolar disorder, what action should the nurse perform first?

In the context of caring for a client with bipolar disorder, establishing a trusting nurse-client relationship is crucial and should be prioritized during the admission assessment. Building trust creates a foundational therapeutic alliance, allowing the client to feel safe and supported, which is essential in mental health nursing. This relationship helps facilitate open communication and engagement from the client, making it easier for the nurse to gather comprehensive information about the client's condition, history, and needs.

Once trust is established, it paves the way for subsequent actions, such as informing the client about unit rules, performing the physical assessment, and encouraging self-care participation. These can be more effectively accomplished when the client feels understood and valued, which ultimately promotes better compliance with the treatment plan and improves overall outcomes.