The Psychiatric Technician is planning interventions according to Maslow's hierarchy of needs. Which of the following would be the first action to be taken for a client just admitted to the unit?

• A. Refer the client to a job training program.
• B. Inform the client about the time and location where meals are served.
• C. Offer the client a choice between two rooms that are decorated differently.
• D. Orient the client to the recreation room.

Answer: (B)

Meeting physiological needs comes first. When a client is newly admitted, the immediate priority is to ensure basic sustenance and routine, which Maslow places at the bottom of the hierarchy. Informing the client about meal times and where meals are served directly supports hunger needs and helps establish predictability in a new environment. This sets a foundation so the client has energy and focus to engage in assessment and treatment.

Referging to a job training program aims at higher-level needs like self-esteem and self-actualization, which are addressed after physiological and safety needs are met. Orienting to the recreation room and offering a choice between rooms touch on safety, belonging, and autonomy, but they’re not as urgent as ensuring access to meals and the basic structure of daily life.