Introduction

Section III is a collection of NANDA-I nursing diagnosis care plans. The care plans are arranged alphabetically by diagnostic concept. They contain definitions, defining characteristics, and related factors if appropriate. Risk Diagnoses, however, only contain “risk factors.” Care plans include suggested outcomes and interventions for all nursing diagnoses.

Making an Accurate Nursing Diagnosis

Verify the accuracy of the previously suggested nursing diagnoses (from Section II) or from alphabetized list (inside back cover) for the client.

STEPS

• Read the definition for the suggested nursing diagnosis and determine if it is appropriate.

• Compare the Defining Characteristics with the symptoms that were identified from the client data collected.

or

• Compare the Risk Factors with the factors that were identified from the client data collected.

Writing Outcomes Statements and Nursing Interventions

After selecting the appropriate nursing diagnosis, use this section to write outcomes and interventions:

STEPS

• Use the Client Outcomes/Nursing Interventions as written by the authors and contributors (select ones that are appropriate for your client).

or

• Use the NOC/NIC outcomes and interventions (as appropriate for your client).

• Read the rationales; the majority of rationales are based on nursing or clinical research that validates the efficacy of the interventions. Every attempt has been made to utilize current references; however, some significant research has not been replicated. Important research studies that are older than 5 years are included because they are the only evidence available. They are designated as CEB (Classic Evidence-Based).

Following these steps, you will be able to write an evidence-based nursing care plan.

• Follow this care plan to administer nursing care to the client.

• Document all steps and evaluate and update the care plan as needed.