When writing expected outcomes, the Practical Nurse (PN) should adhere to accepted criteria, such as which of the following? (Select all that apply)

Choice A reason: Client O2 saturation will be maintained at 95% the entire day is an example of an expected outcome that adheres to accepted criteria. An expected outcome is a measurable and realistic goal that the client should achieve as a result of the nursing interventions. Accepted criteria for writing expected outcomes include being client- centered, specific, observable, measurable, time-limited, and realistic. This outcome meets all these criteria, as it focuses on the client’s condition, states a specific value and time frame, and can be observed and measured.

Therefore, this choice is correct.

Choice B reason: Client will observe safety guidelines while smoking is not an example of an expected outcome that adheres to accepted criteria. This outcome is not specific, observable, or measurable, as it does not state what the safety guidelines are, how they will be observed, or how they will be evaluated. It is also not realistic, as smoking is a harmful behavior that should be discouraged or eliminated, not made safer. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

Choice C reason: PN will assess vital signs every day is not an example of an expected outcome that adheres to accepted criteria. This outcome is not client-centered, as it focuses on the nurse’s action, not the client’s condition or response. It is also not an outcome, but rather an intervention or activity that the nurse will perform to monitor the client’s status. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

Choice D reason: Client will take part in one activity daily for the next 90 days is an example of an expected outcome that adheres to accepted criteria. This outcome is client-centered, specific, observable, measurable, time-limited, and realistic, as it focuses on the client’s participation, states a specific frequency and duration, and can be observed and measured. It also implies a positive change in the client’s behavior or lifestyle that may improve their health or well- being. Therefore, this choice is correct.

Choice A reason: Be silent as a sign of compassion is not an appropriate action for the nurse to take when a client bursts into tears. Silence can be misinterpreted as indifference, disapproval, or rejection, and it can make the client feel more isolated or uncomfortable. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

Choice B reason: Continue with the physical preparation of the client is not an appropriate action for the nurse to take when a client bursts into tears. Continuing with the task without acknowledging the client’s emotional state can be perceived as insensitive, uncaring, or disrespectful, and it can increase the client’s anxiety or distress. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

Choice C reason: Ask the client to share what she is feeling is an appropriate action for the nurse to take when a client bursts into tears. Asking open-ended questions can encourage the client to express her emotions, concerns, or fears, and it can show that the nurse is interested, supportive, and empathetic. It can also help the nurse to identify the source of the client’s distress and provide appropriate interventions or referrals. Therefore, this choice is correct.

Choice D reason: Pull the curtain and leave the area to provide privacy is not an appropriate action for the nurse to take when a client bursts into tears. Leaving the client alone can make her feel abandoned, ignored, or unimportant, and it can prevent the nurse from providing emotional support or assistance. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.