Which principle is part of trauma-informed care?

Developing a therapeutic relationship is a fundamental principle of trauma-informed care because it prioritizes establishing trust, safety, and empowerment for the patient. Trauma-informed care recognizes that individuals who have experienced trauma may have heightened sensitivities and needs, so creating a supportive environment is essential for their healing process.

A strong therapeutic relationship helps patients feel understood and valued, enabling them to share their experiences and feelings more openly, which is critical in addressing their health concerns. This approach is not only beneficial for the patient's emotional wellbeing but also enhances the effectiveness of treatment by promoting cooperation and engagement in the care process. Trauma-informed care emphasizes respect for patient autonomy, fostering an atmosphere where patients feel safe in making informed choices about their care.

In contrast, the other choices neglect key aspects of trauma-informed care, such as minimizing decision-making, ignoring past experiences, or relying solely on written information, which do not align with the principles of empathy, respect, and collaboration inherent in a trauma-informed approach.