Student's Experiences on Learning Therapeutic Relationship: A Narrative Inquiry.

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Healthcare Professional Development

Background:

• The literature on teaching and learning the therapeutic relationship in nursing is limited.
• The therapeutic relationship is crucial for effective nursing practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore how undergraduate nursing students learn about the therapeutic relationship in an acute care setting.
• To develop a model for facilitating the learning process of therapeutic nurse-patient relationships.

Main Methods:

• A narrative inquiry methodology was employed.
• Student reflections served as the primary data source.
• Collaborative data analysis identified common themes.

Main Results:

• A three-dimensional model integrating practical knowledge, theory, and reflection was developed.
• Practical knowledge forms the foundation, theory guides the process, and reflection enhances learning.
• Reflection transforms learning into a meaningful and reflective experience.

Conclusions:

• Nurse educators must emphasize both practical knowledge and theory in teaching therapeutic relationships.
• Constant reflection should be encouraged and embedded within nursing curricula.
• Promoting diverse approaches to reflection is essential for effective learning.