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

Question

a. "Interactions are required in order to help you develop therapeutic communication skills."
b. "Nurses cannot be isolated. We must interact to provide patients with opportunities to practice interpersonal skills."
c. "Observing patient interactions will help you formulate priority nursing diagnoses and appropriate interventions."
d. "It is important to pay attention to patients' behavioral changes, because these signify adjustments in personality."

Answer 1

ANS: B
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 other distracters relate to Maslow and behavioral theory. This item relates to an audience response question.