Understanding Reality Orientation in Psychotic Disorders

A 29-year-old male patient is brought to the emergency department after experiencing severe paranoia and auditory hallucinations. Upon assessment, the nurse notes that the patient believes he is being watched and can hear voices telling him to perform specific actions. This presentation is characteristic of a psychotic disorder.

In the healthcare setting, a critical component of nursing care for patients with psychotic disorders is the management of their understanding of reality, commonly referred to as their __________.