What is the first step in the nursing assessment process?

The first step in the nursing assessment process is collecting a patient's health history. This foundational activity involves gathering comprehensive information about the patient's medical background, including previous illnesses, surgeries, allergies, medications, and family health issues. Understanding this context is crucial for nurses as it informs their evaluation and understanding of the patient’s current health status and any potential risk factors.

This step allows the nurse to establish rapport and trust with the patient, as it opens a dialogue that encourages patients to share relevant information. Moreover, the health history serves as a critical database for planning effective care, leading to more accurate clinical judgments and tailored interventions. By beginning with health history, nurses can better identify relevant information that may affect the assessment and subsequent actions taken.