What it means
The working bond a nurse builds with a client to help them heal and grow. Unlike a friendship, it has a purpose, focuses on the client and not the nurse, and has clear limits. It moves through phases: an orientation (getting to know each other and setting goals), a working phase and a termination phase (ending). It rests on trust, respect, empathy and therapeutic communicationther-uh-PYOO-tik kuh-myoo-nih-KAY-shunPurposeful, client-centered communication that helps a client express feelings and work toward health.Full entry .
For the nurse
Keep professional boundaries: do not share personal problems, accept gifts of value or meet clients socially. Plan the ending from the start, so the client is ready for it.
At a glance
| Spanish | relación terapéutica |
|---|---|
| Also written | nurse-client relationship, therapeutic nurse-client relationship, therapeutic relationships, nurse-client relationships, therapeutic nurse-client relationships |
Related terms
advocate
To speak up and act for a client's rights, safety and wishes; also, a person who does this.
autonomy
A person's right to make their own choices about their body and their care.
therapeutic communication
Purposeful, client-centered communication that helps a client express feelings and work toward health.