Relationships

Kyla Berglund, Taylor Oldham, Julia Elfenbein,

Nakiya Royes, Taylor Rydowski, Stephanie Gonzalez,
David Dinh
What defines a therapeutic relationship in holistic nursing?
A therapeutic relationship is a professional alliance
between the nurse and the client or patient, working
together for a defined period of time to accomplish specific
health-related goals.

● A therapeutic relationship may also occur if a patient is

in the end stages of life or generally uncooperative with
health initiatives.
● The patient must feel supported and listened to,and the
nurse must feel valued in his/her role.
 What are the nine primary concepts essential to a therapeutic relationship in
holistic nursing practice?
1. Demonstrating respect
2. Being genuine
3. Being there/being available
4. Accepting individuality
5. Having self-awareness
6. Maintaining boundaries
7. Demonstrating understanding and empathy
8. Providing support
9. Promoting equality
 What are the four concepts essential for a patient-centered relationship in
holistic nursing?
1. Dignity and Respect- Healthcare practitioners listen to
and honor patient and family perspectives and choices.
2. Information Sharing- Healthcare practitioners communicate
and share complete and unbiased information with patients
and families in ways that are affirming and useful.
Patients and families receive timely and accurate
information.
3. Participation- Patients and families are encouraged and
supported in participating in care and decision making at
the level they choose.
4. Collaboration- Patients and families are included on an
institution-wide basis. For example, policy and program
development, implementation, and evaluation.
What are 3 Vital qualities that enhance relationships?
1. Trust: The glue or cement of relationships
2. Forgiveness: Significant hallmark of a healing
relationship. Transformative for participants
3. Boundaries: Define the perimeter of a relationship; can
be healthy or unhealthy.
 Signs of Ignored Boundaries that Threaten Relationships
- Overenmeshent
- Disassociation
- Excessive detachment
- Victimhood or Martyrdom
- Chip on shoulder
- Invisibility
- Aloofness or Shyness
- Cold and Distant
- Smothering
What are three specific psychological issues that create
unhealthy relationships?
1. Defense mechanisms (such as denial, rationalization,
projection, displacement, repression, humor)
2. Anger (can be openly expressed or quiet resentment)
3. Power and Control Issues (obsessive-compulsive
personality disorder)
 Reference
Dossey, B. M., & Keegan, L. (2016). Holistic nursing: A
handbook for practice. Burlington, MA: Jones & Bartlett
Learning.