Hildegard Peplau Theory Analysis

The Theory of Interpersonal Relations by Hildegard Peplau was first published in nursing in 1952 (Forchuk & Dorsay, 1995). Peplau’s theory focused on the therapeutic relationship between the nurse and the patient (Denisco & Barker, 2016). The nurse takes on the role of counselor, resource, teacher, technical expert, surrogate, and leader, as needed (Denisco & Barker, 2016). Interpersonal relation is derived from the empirical study of human interactions, which helps nurses better understand how to care for their patients based from the patient’s responses to experiences related to their health and illness (Peplau, 1997). According to Peplau (1997), relations refer to the connections, linkage, bonds or patterns that develop and are identifiable within the relationship. The three identifiable phases in this theory are: (1) the orientation phase, (2) the working phase, and (3) the termination phase (Senn, 2013). The nurse utilizes the nurse-patient relationship in each phase to assess the patient’s psychological, emotional, and spiritual needs with learned communication skills, personal strengths, and an understanding of human behavior (Senn, 2013).

This theory is relevant to advanced practice nurses (APNs) because as APNs,

we must possess therapeutic communicative skills in order to routinely interact and assess our patients (Senn, 2013). This will foster trust, mutual goal-setting, therapeutic interventions, and improved learning experiences for the patient and the nurse (Senn, 2013). Often times, I think patients feel they are not fully understood by their health care provider or are affected by other factors that prevent patients from disclosing their feelings regarding their illness. I believe the therapeutic relationship between the nurse and patient is important to the role of nursing and the well being of the patient.

The concept of interpersonal relations can be applied to APNs and all aspects of patient-health care provider interactions.

It can also be utilized as the basic framework in conducting successful research. By using the three phases of the interpersonal relations theory, researchers were able to recruit and retain women for their study through the nurse-participant relationship (Byrn, Ferrans, Mumby, & Penckofer, 2011). As an APN, I plan to guide my patient interactions through this theory. I will be mindful of my patient’s backgrounds, sensitive to their cultural beliefs and experiences, and be empathetic in my actions and interventions. I truly believe this theory will have a positive effect on my patients and help improve their health

outcomes.