When using cognitive behavioral theory with an anxious, withdrawn patient, interventions should focus on which of the following?

Choice A reason: Peplau’s interpersonal relations theory emphasizes the nurse-patient relationship as a therapeutic tool. Reflecting on interactions helps nurses understand dynamics, build trust, and adjust approaches, fostering therapeutic growth, making this the correct choice aligned with her theory.

Choice B reason: Administering medications is a clinical task, not a core component of Peplau’s theory, which focuses on interpersonal dynamics. While important, it does not directly enhance the therapeutic relationship, making this choice incorrect for the theory’s focus.

Choice C reason: Documenting behaviors is standard practice but not central to Peplau’s theory, which prioritizes relational dynamics over administrative tasks. Documentation supports care but does not foster interpersonal growth, making this choice incorrect for the theory.

Choice D reason: Teaching coping skills is therapeutic but secondary to Peplau’s focus on the nurse-patient relationship itself. Reflection on interactions directly supports the theory’s emphasis on understanding relational dynamics, making this choice less relevant than self-reflection.

Choice A reason: Cultural skill refers to the ability to apply cultural knowledge in practice, such as conducting culturally sensitive assessments. It focuses on actionable skills, not self-examination of beliefs, which is a distinct process of internal reflection, making this choice incorrect for the described behavior.

Choice B reason: Cultural knowledge involves understanding cultural facts and differences, not introspective analysis of personal beliefs. It focuses on external information rather than self-awareness, which is critical for examining one’s own values, making this choice incorrect for the nurse’s behavior.

Choice C reason: Cultural awareness involves self-examination of personal beliefs, values, and biases, recognizing their impact on care. This introspective process is essential in psychiatric nursing to ensure unbiased patient interactions, aligning with the described behavior, making this the correct choice.

Choice D reason: Cultural competence encompasses knowledge, skills, and awareness to provide effective care across cultures. While it includes self-examination, it is broader than the specific act of reflecting on personal beliefs, making cultural awareness the more precise term for the described behavior.