In the Evaluation Process, which step involves identifying desired outcomes (goals)?

• A. Collecting data related to goals
• B. Relate nursing actions to client goals
• C. Identifying desired outcomes
• D. Draw conclusions about problem states

Answer: (C)

Identifying desired outcomes is the step that defines what success looks like and sets specific, measurable goals to evaluate progress against. By establishing these targets, you create a standard for judging whether the patient’s goals are being met and whether the nursing actions are effective. For example, a goal might be that the patient demonstrates correct inhaler technique with 100% accuracy by discharge; this gives a concrete criterion to observe, measure, and compare against actual performance.

Once these outcomes are set, you collect data related to them, connect nursing actions to the identified goals, and then draw conclusions about whether the problem states have been resolved or what adjustments are needed. Without clearly identified outcomes, there’s no objective basis for evaluating progress or guiding subsequent steps.