Which of the following are examples of a nurse using non-therapeutic communication techniques? (Select all that apply)

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: Basic-level nurses, such as LPNs or RNs, can teach coping skills, a standard intervention within their scope. This involves education on stress management, aligning with psychiatric nursing roles to support patient and family well-being, making this the correct choice.

Choice B reason: Treating major depressive disorder requires advanced skills, like prescribing or managing complex therapies, which is beyond a basic-level nurse’s scope. This is typically reserved for advanced practice nurses or physicians, making this choice incorrect.

Choice C reason: Prescribing antidepressants is restricted to advanced practice nurses or physicians, not basic-level nurses. This task involves medical decision-making outside the scope of RNs or LPNs, making it unsafe and inappropriate, thus incorrect.

Choice D reason: Assessing suicide risk requires advanced clinical judgment, often reserved for advanced practice nurses or psychiatrists. While basic-level nurses can observe and report, formal assessment exceeds their scope, making this choice incorrect for their role.