Which statement best describes a nursing diagnosis?

Which statement best describes a nursing diagnosis?

• A. A medical condition diagnosed by physician
• B. A formal statement of the health problem identified by the nurse
• C. An intervention plan
• D. A type of patient education

Answer: (B)

A nursing diagnosis is a formal statement of a health problem identified by the nurse, based on assessment data and standardized language, describing an actual or potential issue that nursing care can address. It sits at the heart of the nursing process, guiding planning, interventions, and evaluation, and it is distinct from a physician’s medical diagnosis, which names the disease or condition; from an intervention plan, which outlines actions to take; and from patient education, which is teaching. For example, a nurse might document an impaired physical mobility related to postoperative pain, with supporting data showing limited movement and need for assistance. This framing lets the nurse plan appropriate nursing interventions and monitor outcomes.

A nursing diagnosis is a formal statement of a health problem identified by the nurse, based on assessment data and standardized language, describing an actual or potential issue that nursing care can address. It sits at the heart of the nursing process, guiding planning, interventions, and evaluation, and it is distinct from a physician’s medical diagnosis, which names the disease or condition; from an intervention plan, which outlines actions to take; and from patient education, which is teaching. For example, a nurse might document an impaired physical mobility related to postoperative pain, with supporting data showing limited movement and need for assistance. This framing lets the nurse plan appropriate nursing interventions and monitor outcomes.