What is the first step in the nursing process?

The first step in the nursing process is assessment. This is a critical phase where the nurse gathers comprehensive data regarding the patient's health status. Through assessment, the nurse collects both subjective information (what the patient reports) and objective data (what the nurse observes) to form a well-rounded view of the patient's condition. This foundational step is essential because it informs the subsequent phases of the nursing process: diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation.

By thoroughly assessing the patient first, the nurse can identify actual and potential health issues, leading to accurate diagnoses. Only after the comprehensive assessment can the nurse effectively plan appropriate interventions and evaluate their outcomes. This structured approach ensures that nursing care is tailored to meet individual patient needs, ultimately aiming for the best outcomes in patient health.