Which sequence correctly lists the components of the nursing process?

• A. Assessment, planning, diagnosis, implementation, evaluation.
• B. Assessment, nursing diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation.
• C. Assessment, diagnosis, planning, evaluation, and implementation.
• D. Assessment, nursing diagnosis, planning, implementation and evaluation.

Answer: (D)

The sequence being tested starts with gathering information about the patient, then identifying the problems revealed by that information, followed by planning care, carrying out those plans, and finally evaluating the patient’s response. This flow makes sense because you can’t plan or implement care without first understanding the patient’s status and pinpointing the nursing problems. The step that names the problems is the nursing diagnosis, which guides the goals and interventions you choose in the planning phase. After implementing those interventions, you assess outcomes to see if the goals were met and to decide whether to adjust the plan. Evaluation is last because it determines the effectiveness of what was done and informs future care.