Interpersonal Relations in Nursing



Interpersonal Relations in Nursing

Pepau's Theory of Interpersonal Relations

The Orientation Phase:

Peplau stated that the nurse needs to learn more about the difficulties the patient may have been experiencing and help patients understand the problems they are encountering.

In relation to Peplau's Model of Nursing, the orientation phase was when I was asked by a co-nurse to do the blood pressure of Mrs. A. This was my opportunity to introduce myself, learn more about Mrs. A's problems and try to help her understand the difficulties she was experiencing. Mrs. An explained that she had not been experiencing any problems with her health until recently and expressed that she could not understand the diagnosis given to her. Mrs. A was learning that she would be able to approach me for help and advice; both were at the beginning of the nurse-patient relationship.

The Identification Phase:

During this phase the patient begins to identify the nurse as to someone who can help.

Mrs. A was disclosing her thoughts and worries about her health. Mrs. A was very concerned that her blood pressure and appetite affected by her knowledge of her ailment. Mrs. A told me that she had spoken to her grandson and had asked him to get her some meal replacement supplements, but he cannot afford to purchase such supplements. I spoke at eye level with Mrs. A and held her hand whilst she told me about her worries. I sat and listened to her concerns and explained that I was not entirely confident to give an answer to some of her questions, but would get a qualified nurse who was more experienced professionally to come and explain matters to her.

I felt that Mrs. A recognized me as someone who may be able to help or, someone who could listen to her ...