In evaluating client care, what should the nurse do first?

To evaluate client care effectively, the most important step is to determine if the expected outcomes of care were achieved. This forms the basis for assessing the effectiveness of the interventions that were implemented. By first evaluating the outcomes, the nurse can gauge the client’s progress towards recovery or management of their condition. This assessment allows the nurse to understand if the current care plan is working and whether the goals set for the client are being met.

Once the outcomes are assessed, further steps, such as reviewing rationales, documenting successes, or prioritizing new interventions, can follow. This structured approach ensures that care remains client-centered and outcomes-driven, focusing on the actual impact of the nursing interventions on the client's health status. By addressing the achievement of expected outcomes first, the nurse gains valuable insights that will inform any adjustments needed in the care plan moving forward.