Which step is the final one in the nursing process?

The final step in the nursing process is evaluation. This step is crucial as it involves assessing the outcomes of the care provided and determining whether the goals set during the planning phase were met. Evaluation allows nurses to discern the effectiveness of the interventions and the overall care plan, making it possible to adjust the plan as necessary to improve patient outcomes.

During evaluation, nurses will look at the patient’s responses, identify any new problems, and assess whether the interventions were successful or need modification. This step is essential because it completes the cycle of the nursing process, providing valuable feedback that informs future assessments, planning, and interventions, thereby contributing to continuous improvement in patient care.