Which is the 'Problem defining phase of interpersonal relationship as per Peplau's theory?

Option 1 : Orientation phase 

Concept:

• Peplau's theory is mainly related to the interpersonal relationship which is  defined as “An interpersonal process of therapeutic interactions between an individual who is sick or in need of health services and a nurse especially educated to recognize, respond to the need for help.” It is a “maturing force and an educative instrument” involving an interaction between two . It is mainly the interaction between nurse and their patient.

Therapeutic nurse-client relationship

• It is a professional and planned relationship between client and nurse focuses on the client’s needs, feelings, problems, and ideas.
• It mainly involves interaction between two or more individuals with a common goal.
• The attainment of this goal, or any goal, is achieved a series of steps following a sequence.

Phases of the therapeutic nurse-patient relationship:

 Orientation Phase

• The nurse’s orientation phase is the very basic and first step of interaction which involves engaging the client in treatment, providing explanations and information, and answering questions.
•  It is also termed as Problem defining phase. Hence the option 1 is the Correct Answer.
• It starts when client and patient are both strangers to each other.
• Defining the problem and deciding which type of service is needed.
• Client seeks assistance, conveys needs, clarifies his doubts and nurse helps in clearing the clients doubts.

Identification Phase

• The identification phase starts when the client works interdependently with the nurse, expresses feelings, and begins to feel stronger and when the nurse patient bond becomes stronger.
• Selection of appropriate professional assistance is mainly included in this phase.
• Patient begins to have a feeling of belonging and they are more towards the therapeutic goal attainment.

Exploitation Phase

• In the exploitation phase, the client uses and implement the services offered by the nurse.
• Use of problem solving skills to get the outcomes.
• Advantages of services are used based on the needs and interests of the patients.
• The individual feels more comfortable and also feels like an integral part of the helping environment.

 Resolution Phase

• In the resolution phase, the client no longer needs professional services and gives up dependent behavior and this is the final step towards goal attainment.
• This is also known as the termination phase where the relationship ends.