In order that they are clear and easily understood by other members of

In order that they are clear and easily understood by other members of the health care team, the nurse recognizes that client goals or outcomes should be documented according to specific crite-rion.

Of the following, the outcome statement that best meets the established criteria is:
1. “Client will describe activity restrictions.”
2. “Client will verbalize understanding of treatments.”
3. “Client will be ambulated in hallway 3 times each day.”
4. “Client’s respiratory rate will remain within 20 to 24 breaths per minute by 9/24.”

ANSWER

ANS: 4
“Client’s respiratory rate will remain within 20 to 24 breaths per minute by 9/24” is a correctly written outcome statement. It is client-centered, singular, observable, measurable, time-limited, and realistic. “Client will describe activity restrictions” is not time-limited. “Client will verbalize understanding of treatments” is not observable or time-limited. “The client will state the purpose of the breathing treatments by 4/10” would be more appropriate. “Client will be ambulated in hallway 3 times each day” is not client-centered. A correct outcome statement would be “Client will ambulate in the hall 3 times a day.”