Frequently Asked Questions
Chapter 15: Evaluation

What is the relationship between evaluation and expected outcomes?

Evaluation is the step in the nursing process in which the nurse determines whether expected outcomes have been met, partially met, or not met at all.

What are the sources of data for evaluation?

The sources of data for evaluation are subjective and objective data. Subjective data provide information about how a client feels, such as pain, anxiety, and nausea. Objective data consist of observable facts, such as vital signs, oral intake, and urinary output.

What is the difference between client evaluation and institutional evaluation? How are they similar?

Client evaluation is used to determine whether the expected outcomes for specific clients have been met, such as an intake of a certain amount of fluids. Institutional evaluation is used to determine whether the expected outcomes for the institution or agency are met, such as a decrease in the rate of complications. Both types of evaluation examine the appropriateness of care, clinical outcomes, client satisfaction, cost-effectiveness, access to care, and availability of resources.

What are the three types of evaluation and how do they differ?

The three types of evaluation are structure, process, and outcome evaluation. Structure evaluation involves determining whether the health care agency has the ability to provide services. Process evaluation determines whether services are effective and efficient. Outcome evaluation focuses on changes in the client’s health status by examining whether expected outcomes were met, partially met, or not met at all.

What types of data are collected and analyzed in nursing audits?

Nursing audits examine client safety, interventions, expected outcomes, discharge planning, client teaching, and adequacy of staffing patterns.

What are the characteristics of effective peer evaluation?

Effective peer evaluation improves quality of care; promotes professional growth; is timely, frequent, and ongoing; may be formal or informal, verbal, or written; is not anonymous; addresses specific behavior; is not linked to financial rewards or promotional opportunities; and needs to be documented.