Peplau's Theory Analysis

Often the difference between conceptual models and theories are confused. Based on Fawcett’s Determination 3, ‘if the purpose of the work is to describe, explain or predict concrete and specific phenomena, then the work is probably a middle-range theory” it can be concluded that Peplau’s Theory is a middle-range theory (Butts & Rich, 2011). This paper will discuss Peplau’s Theory and how it applies to nursing practice in the clinical setting. Key concepts of Peplau’s theory are pre-orientation, orientation, working and resolution (Butts & Rich, 2011). Pre-orientation is the information gathering stage (Butts & Rich, 2011). The nurse finds out about the patient’s health history. In addition, the nurse evaluates their own thoughts, feelings

It helps to define how a nurse’s interactions with patients establish trust and a working relationship between the nurse and the patient. Deane & Fain (2015) studied Peplau’s Theory as a way to help nursing students with their relationships with older adults. With the increase of geriatric patients that will occur over the next few years, Deane & Fain (2015) felt that young nurses coming out of school my have some attitudes of ageism. Therefore, they wanted to determine if Peplau’s Theory would help these new graduates with their nurse-patient relationships. They concluded that Peplau’s Theory would be beneficial in teaching holistic care and communication to nurses. “Through the fostering of holistic practice, nurses will have an increased ability to process the feelings, thoughts, and emotions they may have toward their patients” (Deane & Fain, 2015). Peplau’s Theory predicts that interpersonal relationships between nurses and patients will assist in healing. By following the stages and establishing trust with the patient, the nurse will be able to help the patient have a better

In fact, it is important to the patient’s healing. Before a patient comes to my floor, I look up their history and reasons for admission. This is the gathering or pre-orientation phase. The orientation phase for the bedside nurse would be when the patient arrives on the floor. The nurse introduces their self to the patient and begins establishing trust. The nurse asks the patient questions to see what their expectations are and clarifies the expectations of the hospital or unit. The nurse then explains the plan of care to the patient and answers any questions. In the working phase, the nurse is the patient’s advocate and addresses any problems the patient has. The nurse assures the patient they will research any problems and find out the answers as quickly as possible. Once the nurse finds the answers, he/she relays the information to the patient and the family. He/she may give the patient educational materials, show them a video or simply provide an explanation from the provider. During the resolution phase, the nurse provides discharge information. He/she answers any questions related to discharge and provides the patient with instructions post discharge from the hospital. If the nurse has established a relationship and trust with the patient, the hospital stay and discharge should leave the patient confident that they are well enough for discharge home or to a facility. Peplau’s Theory is applicable