Frequently Asked Questions
Chapter 13: Outcome Identification and Planning

What are the purposes of outcome identification and planning?

The purposes of outcome identification and planning are (1) to provide direction to ensure quality nursing care, (2) to improve communication within the health care system, and (3) to provide continuity of care.

What are the four elements of outcome identification and planning?

The four elements of outcome identification and planning are (1) establishing diagnosis priorities, (2) developing expected client outcomes and establishing outcome criteria, (3) planning nursing strategies, and (4) writing the nursing care plan and nursing orders.

What are the components of the expected outcome statement?

Expected outcome statements include (1) the subject, or client; (2) a task statement, the hoped-for client behavior or function; (3) the criteria by which the nurse will determine whether the expected outcome is met (usually the absence of the defining characteristics for the nursing diagnosis); (4) the conditions, or qualifying statements or conditions for meeting the expected outcome; and (5) the time frame within which that outcome is expected to be reached.

What is the difference between a short-term and a long-term expected outcome?

A short-term expected outcome focuses on the etiology of a problem and covers a short period of time, hours or days. A long-term expected outcome focuses on the problem and covers a longer time frame.

What are the characteristics of an appropriate nursing intervention?

Nursing interventions should (1) address the “etiology” component of the nursing diagnosis, (2) be based on clinical guidelines and standards for nursing care when available, (3) be compatible with the client’s abilities and value system, and (4) pose minimal risk.

What are the elements of nursing orders?

The elements of nursing orders are (1) the date; (2) an action verb stating the nurse’s action; (3) a detailed description of what, when, where, and how the nurse will act; (4) a description of when, how often, and how long the nursing action is in effect; and (5) a signature implying legal and ethical accountability.

What are the differences between independent, interdependent, and dependent nursing interventions?

Independent nursing interventions are those sanctioned by professional nurse practice acts. They do not require direction or an order from another health care professional. Interdependent nursing interventions are actions that are implemented in a collaboration or consultation with other health care professionals. Dependent nursing interventions are those that require an order from other health care professionals.