What is the most accurate statement about the primary purpose of evaluation in nursing?

The primary purpose of evaluation in nursing is to assess the effectiveness of nursing care. This involves collecting data about the patient's response to interventions and determining if the desired outcomes have been achieved. By evaluating the outcomes, nurses can identify what is working well and what may need to be adjusted in the care plan. This ongoing assessment is crucial for ensuring that patients receive optimal care and that nursing interventions are tailored to meet their specific needs.

In nursing practice, effective evaluation leads to evidence-based adjustments in care strategies, enhances patient safety, and promotes improved health outcomes. It allows for reflection on both the effectiveness of the interventions performed and the overall quality of care delivered.

While assessing whether all interventions were performed and determining staffing needs or reducing paperwork are relevant aspects of nursing practice and management, they do not encapsulate the core function of evaluation, which is fundamentally about measuring the impact of nursing care on patient outcomes.