What does evaluation in nursing primarily determine?

In nursing, evaluation is a critical component of the nursing process that focuses on determining the effectiveness of care provided and whether specific patient outcomes have been met as a result of nursing interventions. It involves assessing whether the goals set during the planning phase were achieved, based on measurable criteria related to the patient's health status. This process informs nurses about the success of their interventions, allowing them to make necessary adjustments to care plans, continue effective strategies, or modify those that are not yielding desired results.

By determining whether patient outcomes have been achieved, nurses can ensure that care is patient-centered and tailored to individual needs, ultimately enhancing the quality of care and improving patient satisfaction. Regular evaluation fosters a cycle of continuous improvement in nursing practice, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based interventions and patient-focused outcomes.