The primary goal of assessment is to establish a complete database for problem identification and care planning.

• A. The primary goal of assessment is to establish a complete database for problem identification and care planning
• B. To complete discharge summaries
• C. To assign tasks to staff
• D. To implement interventions without data

Answer: (A)

The main idea being tested is that assessment is about gathering a complete, organized set of data about the patient to identify problems and plan care. By collecting physical findings, history, symptoms, functional status, psychosocial factors, and other relevant information, the nurse creates a comprehensive database that reveals actual and potential health problems and guides the care plan with specific goals and interventions. This foundation also supports ongoing monitoring and communication with the patient and the health-care team, ensuring continuity of care. Other options miss the purpose of assessment: discharge summaries come after care to document outcomes and transfer information, assigning tasks to staff is a management step, and implementing interventions without data ignores the need for evidence-based, data-driven decisions.