During what stage of the nursing process is data collected to diagnose patient strengths and problems?

The assessment phase of the nursing process involves the systematic collection of data to identify patient strengths and problems. This is a critical first step, as it provides the foundational information necessary for effective nursing care. During this phase, nurses gather both subjective data (such as patient-reported symptoms and feelings) and objective data (such as vital signs and lab results) through various methods, including interviews, physical examinations, and reviewing medical records.

The information obtained during this phase helps to form a comprehensive understanding of the patient’s health status, facilitating accurate diagnoses and the development of effective care plans. By focusing on both strengths and problems, nurses can prioritize interventions that support patient recovery and enhance overall well-being.

In contrast, the implementation phase occurs after planning has been established, where the care strategies are put into action. The planning phase follows assessment and involves setting goals and determining interventions, while the evaluation phase assesses the effectiveness of the interventions and determines whether patient outcomes have been met.