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: Gives the same message to the patient verbally and nonverbally is an example of using assertive communication, not a sign of needing further teaching on it. Assertive communication is a communication style that involves expressing one’s thoughts, feelings, and needs in a clear, respectful, and confident manner. It also involves using congruent verbal and nonverbal cues, such as eye contact, tone of voice, and body language, to reinforce the message and avoid confusion or misunderstanding. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

Choice B reason: Speaks firmly and positively is an example of using assertive communication, not a sign of needing further teaching on it. Assertive communication is a communication style that involves expressing one’s thoughts, feelings, and needs in a clear, respectful, and confident manner. It also involves using firm and positive language, such as “I” statements, active verbs, and constructive feedback, to convey the message and avoid aggression or passivity. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

Choice C reason: Is unapologetic is an example of using assertive communication, not a sign of needing further teaching on it. Assertive communication is a communication style that involves expressing one’s thoughts, feelings,

and needs in a clear, respectful, and confident manner. It also involves being unapologetic for one’s opinions, beliefs, or values, as long as they do not harm or disrespect others. It does not mean being rude or arrogant, but rather being honest and authentic. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

Choice D reason: Agrees to do whatever the patient requests is a sign of needing further teaching on using assertive communication, not an example of it. Agreeing to do whatever the patient requests is a communication style that involves suppressing one’s thoughts, feelings, and needs in order to please or avoid conflict with others. It is a form of passive communication, which can lead to resentment, frustration, or loss of self-esteem. It can also compromise the quality of care or the safety of the patient or the nurse. Therefore, this choice is correct.

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.