What is the definition of a nursing diagnosis?

A nursing diagnosis is defined as a clinical judgment about patient responses to health conditions or needs. This definition is foundational to nursing practice, as it emphasizes the nurse's role in assessing, analyzing, and planning care based on the patient's unique health situations. Unlike a medical diagnosis, which focuses more on the disease process itself, a nursing diagnosis pertains to how the patient's health status presents and how they respond to various health conditions.

This concept is critical in the nursing process because it guides the development of individualized care plans aimed at improving patient outcomes. Identifying patient responses enables nurses to implement interventions that are more targeted and effective, enhancing the overall quality of nursing care provided. Understanding this definition clarifies the scope of nursing responsibilities beyond mere documentation or administrative decisions, highlighting the importance of addressing patients' holistic needs.