Which term is a type of planning in the nursing process?

• A. Initial
• B. Comprehensive strategy
• C. Discharge evaluation
• D. Ongoing planning

Answer: (A)

Planning in the nursing process begins with how care is set up at the start, and it evolves as the patient’s needs change. The initial planning phase happens at the first contact after the assessment and diagnosis, creating the baseline care plan with priorities and chosen interventions. This phase establishes the goals and actions that guide early care and sets the foundation for what will be adjusted later.

Among the options, the term that fits this first planning step is initial planning. It specifically names the planning that occurs at the outset of care. Ongoing planning is also a real part of the process, as plans are updated with changing status, but the option here labels the initial, foundational planning phase. The other terms don’t align with standard nursing process planning phases.