Which statement correctly defines the etiology in a nursing diagnosis?

Which statement correctly defines the etiology in a nursing diagnosis?

• A. The signs and symptoms supporting the problem
• B. The plan of care to address the problem
• C. The cause or contributing factors that link to the problem
• D. The desired health outcome

Answer: (C)

Etiology in a nursing diagnosis is the cause or contributing factors that link the problem to its origin. This explains why the problem exists and guides interventions aimed at addressing the root cause rather than just the symptoms. The signs and symptoms are the defining characteristics that support the diagnosis, not the cause itself. The plan of care is the actions taken to address the problem, and the desired health outcome states the target status for the patient. For example, in a diagnosis of acute pain related to tissue injury, tissue injury is the etiology, while the pain level and guarding are the defining characteristics that support the diagnosis. Targeting the etiology helps nurses address the underlying reason for the problem.

Etiology in a nursing diagnosis is the cause or contributing factors that link the problem to its origin. This explains why the problem exists and guides interventions aimed at addressing the root cause rather than just the symptoms. The signs and symptoms are the defining characteristics that support the diagnosis, not the cause itself. The plan of care is the actions taken to address the problem, and the desired health outcome states the target status for the patient. For example, in a diagnosis of acute pain related to tissue injury, tissue injury is the etiology, while the pain level and guarding are the defining characteristics that support the diagnosis. Targeting the etiology helps nurses address the underlying reason for the problem.