What is a nursing diagnosis?

A nursing diagnosis is characterized as a clinical judgment regarding the responses of individuals, families, or communities to actual or potential health issues. This definition emphasizes the role of nurses in assessing health conditions beyond just the physical symptoms presented by patients. It encompasses a holistic perspective, allowing nurses to identify patient needs and develop care plans that address both medical and psychosocial aspects of care.

For example, a nursing diagnosis might reflect a patient's risk for developing complications, their emotional responses to illness, or challenges in coping with health changes. By focusing on these responses, nurses can advocate for appropriate interventions and supports tailored to their patients' unique situations, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes.

In contrast, other options such as lists of medications, a patient's medical history, or a treatment plan do not encapsulate the essence of a nursing diagnosis. They may pertain to aspects of patient care but lack the comprehensive, judgment-based assessment approach that defines a nursing diagnosis.