Online Companion: Fundamentals of Nursing Standards and Practice 2E

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the nurse set goals when the client's condition is changing rapidly, even minute by minute?

In a situation where the client's condition is changing, it is likely that physiologic needs are unstable. The need to maintain basic physical functions such as maintaining an open airway is of the highest priority. That goal is identified immediately. In this type of clinical situation, the need to prevent complications or deterioration of the client's condition also has a high priority so the potential or risk nursing diagnoses are established. The experienced nurse is able to collect pertinent assessment data, identify priorities, set short-term goals in an efficient manner to manage urgent situations. The need for clear goals is of great importance in a rapidly changing situation.

Do nurses use the written plan of care in clinical situations?

When the plan of care is clearly written, has realistic goals and is individualized to the client, it is the best and most useful guide to caring for the client. The nurse , who may be assigned to care for several clients, uses time effectively when the established plan is implemented. The nurse is always reassessing the client to determine if revisions are needed in the established plan. Care plans that are not pertinent to the client's needs are not useful and not used.