The Application of Peplau’s Theory of Interpersonal Relations in the Nursing Process for Student Nurses

Abstract

Nursing is a science that relies on the art of healing and helping sick people. The nursing process is a work process which is related from start to finish and which uses tools to gain trust regarding the information and concerns of the client. It is the first practice for 2nd-year student nurses where students must apply the theory and knowledge they have learned in practice. Building relationships with clients in wards is a new issue for student nurses who interact with clients in the role of student nurse while still lacking experience and skills in communicating with clients in the role of service providers. Relationship-building is a communication tool used to obtain information and leads to appropriate nursing care. Peplau's theory of interpersonal relations can be applied to each stage of the nursing process, including the orientation phase with condition assessment; the identification phase with nursing diagnosis and planning; the exploitation phase with implementation; and the resolution phase with evaluation. 

Peplau’s theory of relativity is a theory that places importance on respecting the individuality between nursing students and clients and the diverse roles played by nurses. The phase of solving, in building relationships with clients, aims for the service recipients to truly realize and understand their own problems. Both student nurses and clients will grow and develop themselves together leading to cooperation in solving problems correctly and appropriately.