A client is to be discharged from an acute care facility after treatment for right leg thrombophlebitis. The nurse notes that the client’s leg is pain free, without redness or edema. The nurse’s actions reflect which phase of the nursing process? Select one answer

Choice A reason: Implementation is a phase of the nursing process that involves carrying out the plan of care and performing the interventions and activities that were planned. It also involves monitoring the client’s response and progress, and documenting the outcomes. The nurse’s actions do not reflect this phase, as they are not performing any interventions or activities, but rather observing and measuring the client’s condition. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

Choice B reason: Evaluation is a phase of the nursing process that involves measuring the outcomes and determining whether the interventions were effective in resolving or preventing the problem. It also involves comparing the actual outcomes with the expected outcomes, and modifying the plan of care if needed. The nurse’s actions reflect this phase, as they are assessing the client’s leg for signs of improvement or resolution of thrombophlebitis, and noting that the client is ready for discharge. Therefore, this choice is correct.

Choice C reason: Outcomes identification is a phase of the nursing process that involves setting measurable and realistic goals for the client’s health improvement or maintenance. The goals are based on the client’s needs, preferences, and values, and they are developed in collaboration with the client and the nurse. The nurse’s actions do not reflect this phase, as they are not setting any goals, but rather evaluating whether they have been met.

Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

Choice D reason: Assessment is a phase of the nursing process that involves collecting and analyzing data about the client’s health status, history, and environment. It also involves identifying any factors that may affect the client’s health or well-being, and forming a nursing diagnosis. The nurse’s actions do not reflect this phase, as they are not collecting or analyzing any new data, but rather reviewing the existing data and confirming the diagnosis. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

D) “I understand that you would like some ice cream, but I need you to be more respectful when you ask me for something.” This is an assertive response because it acknowledges the patient’s request, expresses the nurse’s feelings, and sets a clear boundary for acceptable behavior. Assertiveness is the ability to communicate one’s needs, opinions, and feelings in a respectful and confident manner.

“You are hungry and want a snack. I can do that in 10 minutes when I finish my rounds.” is incorrect. This is a passive response because it does not address the patient’s rudeness or assert the nurse’s rights. Passive communication is the tendency to avoid conflict, suppress one’s feelings, and comply with others’ demands.

“Maybe I can get one of the aides to bring you something in a while.” is incorrect. This is an evasive response because it does not commit to fulfilling the patient’s request or confronting the patient’s attitude. Evasive communication is the tendency to avoid responsibility, give vague answers, and shift blame to others.

“Call the nursing station and ask them to have the kitchen bring whatever you want.” is incorrect. This is an aggressive response because it rejects the patient’s request, shows irritation, and implies that the nurse does not care about the patient’s needs. Aggressive communication is the tendency to dominate, criticize, and blame others.