The impact of a therapeutic nurse-family relationship on post graduate public health nursing students

Abstract

This article reports an evaluation of the subjective reactions of post-basic public health nursing students to an experience in establishing therapeutic relationships with families. Two consecutive groups of students (17 in 1975; 21 in 1976) made home visits for a period of approx 4 1 2 months, to families with health problems, but no need for technical nursing care. Members of both groups completed a written interview at the end of their study periods. These interviews indicate a great deal of stress at the outset, related to fears of intruding on and exploiting clients. This was most pronounced in the first group who experienced all aspects of these relationships (contact with clients, supervision) in a highly personalized fashion. The second group, shared a concern about the ethics of the visits, but was more open to a new experience, and appeared to react somewhat more professionally than personally. Reactions to teaching were favorable for the two classes. Both groups seem to arrive at a common kind of learning: an appreciation of the supportive, non-intrusive aspects of the therapeutic relationship. A reevaluation of teaching is suggested, to better aid students to cope with stress related to their ‘right’ to enter a home without a technical care function.