Nursing theory is the fundamental structure of the nursing profession. Nursing theorists
define nursing care by developing the theoretical basis for various facets of nursing practice. The
most crucial part of applying
...
Nursing theory is the fundamental structure of the nursing profession. Nursing theorists
define nursing care by developing the theoretical basis for various facets of nursing practice. The
most crucial part of applying theory to practice is addressing the needs of patients to ensure
quality patient care (Im & Chang, 2012). Significant benefits occur when applying nursing
theory to solve a problem within nursing practice. For example, Hildegard Peplau’s theory of
interpersonal relations can be applied to the issue of nursing leadership communication thus
enhancing nurse-patient communication.
Peplau formulated the theory of interpersonal relations in 1952. Peplau’s theory helped
clinicians develop more therapeutic interventions for their patients. Her middle range theory
states that the nurse-patient relationship should be therapeutic and involve both individuals.
Peplau concluded that it was necessary that nurses interact with their patients purposefully (Senn,
2013). Her theory of interpersonal relations includes seven different nursing roles which
influence clinical nursing. The Seven Nursing Roles of this theory are: the stranger role, the
resource role, the teaching role, the counseling role, the surrogate role, the active leadership role,
and the technical expert role. Nurses can enhance their leadership skills by understanding all
seven roles and applying the appropriate concept to each situation resulting in the best patient
care. Improving patient care results in better treatment outcomes and decreases the length of
recovery. Peplau describes her theory as one of the most useful to apply during nursing practice
in order to understand nurse-patient relationships (Peplau-Nursing Theorist, n.d.). Peplau’s
theory of interpersonal relations helps nurses establish a nurse-patient relationship by assessing
the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of patients (Senn, 2013). Communication between
nurses and their patients is a major factor when establishing a strong nurse-patient relationship.
APPLICATION OF NURSING THEORY 3
Nurses must learn how to communicate proactively with patients and their families by applying
empathy and active listening (Senn, 2013).
This paper discusses the need for nursing leadership to improve communication between
nurse leaders, nurses and patients
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