What type of nursing theory is focused mainly on the interaction between the nurse and patient?

The focus of interpersonal theory is primarily on the relationships and interactions between the nurse and the patient. This theory emphasizes the therapeutic relationship, where the interaction is a crucial part of the healing process. The key elements include the nurse's ability to engage with the patient, the establishment of trust, and the understanding of the patient's feelings and experiences. This humanistic approach promotes effective communication and recognizes the significance of personal interactions in delivering care, which ultimately benefits the patient's health and wellbeing.

In contrast, descriptive theory is more about observing and detailing phenomena without necessarily addressing the interactions that occur during care. Prescriptive theory allows for guidelines and predictions about nursing interventions but does not specifically emphasize the relational aspect between nurse and patient. Biomedical theory focuses primarily on the physical aspects of health and illness, neglecting the interpersonal dynamics that are essential to nursing practice. Thus, interpersonal theory is the most aligned with the specific focus on the dynamics between the nurse and the patient.