Which step of the nursing process involves prioritizing patient problems and selecting interventions?

• A. Assessment
• B. Diagnosis
• C. Planning
• D. Evaluation

Answer: (C)

Prioritizing patient problems and selecting interventions happens during the planning phase of the nursing process. In this stage, after data have been collected and problems identified, you determine which issues to address first, set expected outcomes, and choose nursing actions aimed at achieving those outcomes. Priorities are guided by urgency and potential for harm—safety and life-threatening issues come first, followed by important but less acute needs. The chosen interventions should be specific, feasible, and aligned with the goals and patient preferences, using evidence-based practices. After planning, the next steps involve implementing those interventions and then evaluating whether the goals were met and adjusting the plan as needed. In the earlier phase, assessment is about gathering and interpreting data, while diagnosis involves naming problems based on that data, and evaluation focuses on the patient’s progress after interventions are carried out.