Which phase is described by the phrase 'Shock and panic' in the material?

• A. Retreat Phase
• B. Acknowledgement Phase
• C. Reconstruction Phase
• D. Impact Phase

Answer: (D)

In this situation, the focus is on the immediate emotional reaction to a major change. When someone first encounters an ostomy or a sudden shift in their care routines, they often react with abrupt distress, feeling overwhelmed, shocked, and anxious about what happened and how to manage it. This quick, intense response is the hallmark of the initial Impact Phase. During this phase, people need clear reassurance and simple, concrete information as they begin to process the change and its practical implications for daily care, leakage concerns, and social situations. The other phases come later: Retreat involves withdrawing or avoiding engagement with care, Acknowledgement is when the person starts to accept the reality and begin coping, and Reconstruction is when they adapt, rebuild routines, and integrate the ostomy into daily life. So the phrase 'Shock and panic' aligns best with the initial Impact Phase.