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What are the six subroles of the psychiatric–mental health nurse in a therapeutic relationship as described by Peplau?

The six subroles of the psychiatric–mental health nurse in a therapeutic relationship, according to Peplau's interpersonal theory, are nurse–teacher, mother surrogate, technical nurse, nurse–manager, socializing agent, and counselor or nurse–therapist.

Based on Peplau's interpersonal theory, the psychiatric–mental health nurse can assume six subroles during the therapeutic relationship. The nurse–teacher educates clients about specific illnesses and prescribed medications to promote stability. The mother surrogate meets the nurturing needs of clients who cannot carry out simple tasks. The technical nurse performs vital signs checks, medical or surgical treatment procedures, medication administration, and physical assessment. The nurse–manager creates a therapeutic environment where clients feel safe and accepted. The socializing agent promotes social skills such as interacting with others in a group setting. The counselor or nurse–therapist uses therapeutic skills to help clients identify and deal with stressors or problems that have resulted in dysfunctional coping. The nurse can assume any of these roles at different times during the nurse–client relationship.

Key points

  • Nurse–teacher: educates clients about illnesses and medications.
  • Mother surrogate: meets nurturing needs of clients unable to perform simple tasks.
  • Technical nurse: performs vital signs, procedures, medication administration, and physical assessment.
  • Nurse–manager: creates a safe, accepting therapeutic environment.
  • Socializing agent: promotes social skills like group interaction.
  • Counselor or nurse–therapist: helps clients identify and manage stressors causing dysfunctional coping.
Source:Basic Concepts of Psychiatric–Mental Health Nursing· Continuum of Care· p. 155–165

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Basic Concepts of Psychiatric–Mental Health Nursing

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Eighth Edition · Wolters Kluwer Health | Lippincott Williams & Wilkins

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