Which guideline ensures the patient and nurse agree on goals?

Which guideline ensures the patient and nurse agree on goals?

• A. Singular
• B. Time-limited
• C. Mutual
• D. Realistic

Answer: (C)

Goal setting in nursing is most effective when it is a joint process between patient and nurse. When goals are mutually agreed, both parties contribute, aligning medical priorities with the patient’s values, preferences, and abilities. This shared understanding fosters ownership, improves adherence, and makes the care plan clear about what will be done, by whom, and by when. If goals are set by one party alone, the patient may feel unheard and be less engaged. Merely making goals time-limited focuses on deadlines rather than involvement; while ensuring realism is important for achievability, it does not guarantee the patient’s agreement or commitment. The element that ensures agreement and collaboration is mutual.

Goal setting in nursing is most effective when it is a joint process between patient and nurse. When goals are mutually agreed, both parties contribute, aligning medical priorities with the patient’s values, preferences, and abilities. This shared understanding fosters ownership, improves adherence, and makes the care plan clear about what will be done, by whom, and by when. If goals are set by one party alone, the patient may feel unheard and be less engaged. Merely making goals time-limited focuses on deadlines rather than involvement; while ensuring realism is important for achievability, it does not guarantee the patient’s agreement or commitment. The element that ensures agreement and collaboration is mutual.