Nursing process

Definition

The nursing process is a systematic method used by nurses to ensure comprehensive patient care. It involves assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Assessment is the first step where nurses gather comprehensive data about the patient's health.
2. Diagnosis involves analyzing the assessment data to identify the patient's problems or needs.
3. Planning includes setting measurable and achievable short- and long-term goals for the patient’s care.
4. Implementation is carrying out the interventions outlined in the plan of care.
5. Evaluation measures the effectiveness of implemented interventions and may lead to modifications of the care plan.

Review Questions

• What are the five steps of the nursing process?
• How does a nurse utilize assessment in drug administration?
• Why is evaluation an essential part of the nursing process?

Related terms

Assessment:

The collection of data about a patient's health status.

Diagnosis: The identification of a patient's health needs based on assessment data.

Implementation: Executing planned interventions to achieve desired patient outcomes.