Author Question: A student nurse tells the instructor, I don't need to interact with my patients. I learn what I need ... (Read 71 times)

rmenurse · **on:** Jul 19, 2018

A student nurse tells the instructor, I don't need to interact with my patients. I learn what I need to know by observation. The instructor can best interpret the nursing implications of Sullivan's theory to the student by responding:

a. nurses cannot be isolated. We must interact to provide patients with opportunities to practice interpersonal skills.
b. observing patient interactions can help you formulate priority nursing diagnoses and appropriate interventions.
c. I wonder how accurate your assessment of the patient's needs can be if you do not interact with the patient.
d. noting patient behavioral changes is important because these signify changes in personality.

Question 2

A psychiatric technician says, Little of what takes place on the behavioral health unit seems to be theory based. A nurse educates the technician by identifying which common use of Sullivan's theory?

a. Structure of the therapeutic milieu of most behavioral health units
b. Frequent use of restraint and seclusion as behavior management tools
c. Assessment tools based on age-appropriate versus arrested behaviors
d. Method nurses use to determine the best sequence for nursing actions

missalyssa26 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 19, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
Sullivan believed that the nurse's role includes educating patients and assisting them in developing effective interpersonal relationships. Mutuality, respect for the patient, unconditional acceptance, and empathy are cornerstones of Sullivan's theory. The nurse who does not interact with the patient cannot demonstrate these cornerstones. Observations provide only objective data. Priority nursing diagnoses usually cannot be accurately established without subjective data from the patient. The third response pertains to Maslow's theory. The fourth response pertains to behavioral theory.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
The structure of the therapeutic environment has, as its foci, an accepting atmosphere and provision of opportunities for practicing interpersonal skills. Both constructs are directly attributable to Sullivan's theory of interpersonal relationships. Sullivan's interpersonal theory did not specifically consider the use of restraint or seclusion. Assessment based on the developmental level is more the result of Erikson's theories. Sequencing nursing actions based on the priority of patient needs is related to Maslow's hierarchy of needs.