Category: N

A formal, systematic, and rigorous process of inquiry used by nurses to generate and test the concepts and propositions that constitute middle range nursing theories, which are derived from or linked with a conceptual model of nursing. The theories include: Grand: Health belief model; Transactional model of stress and coping; Life process interactive person-environment model;…

A specific written procedure that prescribes nursing actions in a given situation. Health agencies and physicians establish protocols to ensure consistency and quality of care. A protocol may describe mandatory nursing assessments, behaviors, and documentation for establishing and maintaining invasive appliances; methods of administering specific drugs; special care modalities for patients with certain disorders; other…

A standardized set of data identifying essential, common, and core data elements collected in all settings for any patients/clients receiving nursing care. They include the three broad elements of: nursing care, patient or client demographics, and service.  

The use of computer science, information science, and nursing science to manage, process, and analyze nursing data, information, and knowledge to support the practice of nursing and the delivery of patient care.  

The first step of the assessment stage of the nursing process that leads to development of a nursing care plan. Valuable information can be obtained from this history, and reactions to previous hospitalization can be recorded and utilized in managing the patient’s care during the current stay.  

A specific expected outcome of nursing intervention as related to the established nursing diagnosis. A goal is stated in terms of a desired, measurable change in patient status or behavior. Nursing goals provide direction for selection of appropriate nursing interventions and evaluation of patient progress.  

The number of nurses in the work force divided by the population of the community at large.  

The systematic collection of all data and information relevant to the care of patients, their problems, and needs. The initial step of the assessment consists of obtaining a careful and complete history from the patient. If this cannot be done because the mental or physical condition of the patient makes communication impossible, the nursing history…

The number of nurses assigned to care for a patient, especially in a hospital. Low nurse-to-patient ratios have been associated with a decrease in the quality of hospital care and an increase in complications in care.  

The number of licensed, registered nurses in active fulltime practice, plus half the number of licensed nurses who work part-time. The estimate includes all associate, baccalaureate, and graduate level nurses.