The nurse is caring for a patient who will be discharged home following surgical repair of a broken shoulder. The patient tells the nurse, "I don't have anyone at home who can help me cook my meals. Is there something you can do?"

Question

Demonstrating the adaptability of the nursing process, the nurse should:
a.
adjust the patient's care plan so that nursing goals can be met.
b.
consult the care provider about extending the patient's hospitalization.
c.
abandon the plan of care as not able to be done.
d.
contact the social worker about community services.

Answer 1

ANS: D
The nursing process is adaptable for developing plans of care for individuals who are hospitalized or are receiving care in an outpatient, long-term care, or home setting. It is an equally useful method for addressing the needs of a specific population. Patient care plans are developed to meet each patient's goals, not the goals of standardized patients or members of the health care team, including the nurse. Decisions regarding which nursing interventions and medical treatments to implement are made on the basis of safety and their effectiveness in meeting a patient's identified needs and desired outcomes. The dynamic, responsive nature of the nursing process allows it to be used effectively with patients in any setting and at every level of care. The plan of care is individualized for the patient on the basis of assessment findings, changing needs, setting, and timing of interaction, not just outcomes. Following the steps of the nursing process ensures that patient care is well organized and thorough.