{"id":8704,"date":"2025-10-24T12:47:23","date_gmt":"2025-10-24T20:47:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/?p=8704"},"modified":"2026-05-29T16:27:10","modified_gmt":"2026-05-30T00:27:10","slug":"how-to-write-a-nursing-care-plan","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/how-to-write-a-nursing-care-plan","title":{"rendered":"How to Write a Nursing Care Plan"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_80 ez-toc-wrap-center counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">In This Article<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/how-to-write-a-nursing-care-plan\/#Why_Nursing_Care_Plans_Matter\" >Why Nursing Care Plans Matter&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/how-to-write-a-nursing-care-plan\/#The_ADPIE_Framework\" >The ADPIE Framework&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/how-to-write-a-nursing-care-plan\/#Step_1_Assessment_%E2%80%93_Collect_Organize_Data\" >Step 1: Assessment \u2013 Collect &amp; Organize Data&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/how-to-write-a-nursing-care-plan\/#Step_2_Nursing_Diagnosis_%E2%80%93_Interpret_Prioritize\" >Step 2: Nursing Diagnosis \u2013 Interpret &amp; Prioritize&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/how-to-write-a-nursing-care-plan\/#Step_3_Planning_%E2%80%93_Goals_Interventions\" >Step 3: Planning \u2013 Goals &amp; Interventions&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/how-to-write-a-nursing-care-plan\/#Step_4_Implementation_%E2%80%93_Carry_Out_the_Plan\" >Step 4: Implementation \u2013 Carry Out the Plan&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/how-to-write-a-nursing-care-plan\/#Step_5_Evaluation_%E2%80%93_Measure_Revise\" >Step 5: Evaluation \u2013 Measure &amp; Revise&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/how-to-write-a-nursing-care-plan\/#Tips_for_Stronger_Care_Plans\" >Tips for Stronger Care Plans&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/how-to-write-a-nursing-care-plan\/#How_the_Clinical_Judgment_Measurement_Model_CJMM_Fits_In\" >How the Clinical Judgment Measurement Model (CJMM) Fits In&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/how-to-write-a-nursing-care-plan\/#Supporting_Better_Patient_Outcomes_with_Care_Plans\" >Supporting Better Patient Outcomes with Care Plans&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/how-to-write-a-nursing-care-plan\/#Key_Takeaways\" >Key Takeaways<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/how-to-write-a-nursing-care-plan\/#Reviewers\" >Reviewers<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/how-to-write-a-nursing-care-plan\/#Resources_References\" >Resources &amp; References&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>A nursing care plan<\/strong> is a <strong>structured, individualized guide<\/strong> developed by <strong>nurses<\/strong> to address a <strong>patient&#8217;s specific health needs<\/strong> once they&#8217;ve identified an actual or potential health-related problem, also known as a <strong>nursing diagnosis<\/strong> or <strong>clinical problem<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A well-written <strong>care plan<\/strong> supports <strong>continuity of care<\/strong>, <strong>patient safety<\/strong>, <strong>critical thinking<\/strong>, and <strong>professional accountability<\/strong>, which are all foundational skills for current and aspiring <strong>RNs<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Nursing_Care_Plans_Matter\"><\/span>Why Nursing Care Plans Matter&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A <strong>care plan<\/strong> ensures you&#8217;re not just reacting, but leading in caregiving as you identify patient needs. A <strong>care plan<\/strong> helps you to:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Prioritize nursing care<\/strong> based on <strong>subjective and objective assessment data <\/strong>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Select <strong>evidence-based interventions <\/strong>that align with these priorities<strong>. <\/strong>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Communicate your reasoning<\/strong> to the patient and care team&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Track <strong>patient progress<\/strong> and adapt care&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Document clearly<\/strong> and professionally&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_ADPIE_Framework\"><\/span>The ADPIE Framework&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most <strong>nursing care plans<\/strong> follow the five steps of the nursing process, <strong>Assessment, Diagnosis, Planning, Implementation, and Evaluation (ADPIE)<\/strong>, as a foundational framework for <strong>clinical reasoning<\/strong> and <strong>documentation<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"931\" width=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/10\/ADPIE_Nursing_Process.png?w=1024\" alt=\"Title: BACKGROUND \nAcronym to remember 5 consecutive steps of the nursing process\n~ Ensures securing systematic individualized patient care\n\nA \u2014 Assessment\nSubjective: Current complaint, history, medications, etc.\nObjective: Vital signs, intake &amp; output of fluids, height\/weight\n\nD \u2014 Diagnosis\nRN\u2019s clinical judgment about actual or potential health problems\nto help prioritize &amp; plan care\n\nP \u2014 Planning\nGoals &amp; outcomes formulated, personalized to individual\u2019s unique needs\n\nI \u2014 Implementation\nCarrying out interventions outlined like cardiac monitor or oxygen, medication, &amp; standard protocols\n\nE \u2014 Evaluation\nEvaluate implementation to ensure desired outcome has been met; continuous reassessment may be needed\n\nSource: Osmosis from Elsevier\" class=\"wp-image-8705\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.0998912114383401;width:534px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/10\/ADPIE_Nursing_Process.png 1920w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/10\/ADPIE_Nursing_Process.png?resize=300,273 300w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/10\/ADPIE_Nursing_Process.png?resize=768,698 768w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/10\/ADPIE_Nursing_Process.png?resize=1024,931 1024w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/10\/ADPIE_Nursing_Process.png?resize=1536,1397 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You&#8217;ll cycle through these steps as patient conditions shift and evolve. &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/answers\/adpie-nursing-process-acronym\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Learn more about ADPIE \u2192<\/a><\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_1_Assessment_%E2%80%93_Collect_Organize_Data\"><\/span>Step 1: Assessment \u2013 Collect &amp; Organize Data&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A strong <strong>assessment<\/strong> is the foundation of every <strong>care plan<\/strong>. But first, it takes some time to become a clinical detective!&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Subjective data<\/strong> (e.g., what the patient, caretaker, or family reports)&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Objective data<\/strong> (e.g., vital signs, lab values, physical exam)&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>TIP: <\/strong>An easy way to remember the difference between <strong>subjective<\/strong> and <strong>objective data<\/strong> is to think of <strong>subjective data<\/strong> as what the patient or their caregiver <strong>s<\/strong>ays, and <strong>objective data<\/strong> as what you can <strong>o<\/strong>bserve.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When collecting data, use a structured approach, such as a <strong>head-to-toe assessment<\/strong>, or functional patterns that affect health, like nutrition, activity, and sleep. Review the patient&#8217;s <strong>health history<\/strong>, medications, labs, imaging results, along with environmental and <strong>psychosocial factors<\/strong>. Make sure to clearly <strong>document<\/strong> as much relevant information as you can, including the timing and source of information. &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Physical_assessment_-_Overview:_Nursing\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">How to conduct a physical assessment -&gt;<\/a><\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_2_Nursing_Diagnosis_%E2%80%93_Interpret_Prioritize\"><\/span>Step 2: Nursing Diagnosis \u2013 Interpret &amp; Prioritize&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It&#8217;s time to analyze your data. Formulate <strong>nursing diagnoses<\/strong>, including possible patient responses or risks you&#8217;ve identified with your nursing lens. Each diagnosis should include:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Problem statement<\/strong> (what the issue is)&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Related factors\/etiologies<\/strong> (why it&#8217;s happening)&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Defining characteristics\/evidence<\/strong> (signs, symptoms)&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Nurses develop <strong>nursing diagnoses<\/strong> by taking time to assess the patient data systematically and applying standardized frameworks like <strong><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nanda.org\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">NANDA International (NANDA-I)<\/a><\/strong> and the <strong><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.who.int\/standards\/classifications\/other-classifications\/international-classification-for-nursing-practice\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">International Classification for Nursing Practice (ICNP)<\/a><\/strong>. Once identified, diagnoses are prioritized based on the clinical picture by using the <strong><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/the-top-10-helpful-nursing-mnemonics-from-osmosis\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">ABCs (airway, breathing, circulation)<\/a>,<\/strong> safety considerations, urgency, or applying <strong><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/answers\/maslows-hierarchy-of-needs-in-nursing\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Maslow&#8217;s Hierarchy of Needs in nursing<\/a><\/strong>. This structured approach ensures that nurses provide <strong>safe, effective, and patient-centered care<\/strong> based on the most urgent and essential needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"912\" width=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/10\/Maslows_Heirarchy_of_Needs_in_Nursing.png?w=1024\" alt=\"Title: Maslow\u2019s Hierarchy of Needs in Nursing\nDeveloped By Psychologist Abraham Maslow\n\nHierarchy Levels\n1. Physiological Needs\n   * Oxygen\n   * Nutrition\n   * Fluids\n   * Body Temperature\n   * Elimination\n   * Shelter\n   * Sex\n   Supported by: Healthcare providers\n2. Safety &amp; Security\n   * Physical Safety\n   * Psychological Safety\n3. Love &amp; Belonging Needs\n   Supported by: Family &amp; Friends\n4. Self-Esteem\n   * Boost self-esteem: Encourage daily activities &amp; personal care\n   * Mitigate discouragement: Encourage daily, help maintain positive attitude, help accept new identity\n5. Self-Actualization\n\nSource: Osmosis from Elsevier\" class=\"wp-image-8706\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.122793796850831;width:548px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/10\/Maslows_Heirarchy_of_Needs_in_Nursing.png 1920w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/10\/Maslows_Heirarchy_of_Needs_in_Nursing.png?resize=300,267 300w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/10\/Maslows_Heirarchy_of_Needs_in_Nursing.png?resize=768,684 768w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/10\/Maslows_Heirarchy_of_Needs_in_Nursing.png?resize=1024,912 1024w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/10\/Maslows_Heirarchy_of_Needs_in_Nursing.png?resize=1536,1368 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_3_Planning_%E2%80%93_Goals_Interventions\"><\/span>Step 3: Planning \u2013 Goals &amp; Interventions&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With diagnoses in hand, it&#8217;s time to make a <strong>care plan<\/strong> and set some goals! Every <strong>nursing diagnosis<\/strong> should list outcomes as <strong>SMART goals:<\/strong> &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>S<\/strong>pecific: Clearly define the goal&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>M<\/strong>easurable: Includes related measurable data to track success&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>A<\/strong>chievable: Realistic for the patient to achieve&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>R<\/strong>elevant: Pertinent to the diagnosis&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>T<\/strong>ime-bound: Includes a time frame to achieve the goal &nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Choose <strong>interventions<\/strong> aligned with your goals, which will be a mix of:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Independent (nurse-initiated)&nbsp;<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Dependent (provider ordered)&nbsp;<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Collaborative (team-based)&nbsp;<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, this <strong><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Stroke:_Nursing_Process_(ADPIE)\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Stroke: Nursing Process (ADPIE)<\/a><\/strong> case:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Nursing Diagnosis:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/answers\/fall-risk-assessment\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Risk for Falls<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Goal:<\/strong> The patient will remain free of falls during hospitalization&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Interventions:<\/strong> Implement fall precautions, assist with ambulation, collaborate with physical therapy (PT), and adjust the environment to promote safety&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Stroke%3A_Nursing_Process_%28ADPIE%29\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Explore full example of the Nursing Process \u2192<\/a><\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_4_Implementation_%E2%80%93_Carry_Out_the_Plan\"><\/span>Step 4: Implementation \u2013 Carry Out the Plan&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now that you have a <strong>plan<\/strong>, it&#8217;s time to act. While implementing it, make sure to remain observant and responsive, as well as apply the following best practices:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Prioritize safety<\/strong> (for example: by following the steps for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Medication_administration_-_Safety_principles:_Nursing_pharmacology\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>safe medication administration<\/strong><\/a>, use sterile technique when needed)&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Delegate<\/strong> <strong>appropriately&nbsp;<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Document in real time<\/strong>, including what you did, when, and patient response&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Teach<\/strong> <strong>your patient and their family<\/strong> throughout the process&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And remember, even the best plans fail without consistent, thoughtful execution.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"925\" src=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/10\/Mo-thinking.png\" alt=\"Osmosis mascot, Mo, evaluating their nursing care plan.\" class=\"wp-image-8708\" style=\"width:293px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/10\/Mo-thinking.png 1000w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/10\/Mo-thinking.png?resize=300,278 300w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/10\/Mo-thinking.png?resize=768,710 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_5_Evaluation_%E2%80%93_Measure_Revise\"><\/span>Step 5: Evaluation \u2013 Measure &amp; Revise&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Finally, <strong>evaluate <\/strong>whether your interventions met the goals.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ask and review:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Did the actual outcomes match the expected outcomes?&nbsp;<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>What data or feedback supports success or failure?&nbsp;<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Which interventions worked <\/strong>for this patient?<strong> Which&nbsp;did not?&nbsp;<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Do you need to revise the diagnosis, goals, or interventions?&nbsp;<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Return to the <strong>assessment <\/strong>if new data arises&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>For example: <\/strong>&#8220;Following interventions, the patient remained free of falls during this shift.&#8221;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em><strong>Example: Nursing Care Plan Summary<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><td><strong>Nursing Diagnosis<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>SMART Goal \/ Outcome<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Selected Interventions<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Risk for Impaired Skin Integrity related to immobility<\/td><td>Patient will remain free from pressure injuries for 7 days<\/td><td>Reposition every 2 hours; use a pressure-relieving mattress; perform daily skin inspections; ensure adequate caloric and protein intake; apply moisture barrier creams<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Tips_for_Stronger_Care_Plans\"><\/span>Tips for Stronger Care Plans&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Think sequentially: <strong>assessment \u2192 diagnosis \u2192 planning \u2192 intervention \u2192 evaluation<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Make sure to use <strong>clear, measurable language<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Justify each intervention<\/strong> and make sure you&#8217;re clear on <em>why you made that choice<\/em>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Personalize<\/strong> <strong>the plan for each patient,<\/strong> considering factors like their comorbidities, personal preferences, and cultural&nbsp;context<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Stay <strong>flexible<\/strong>; revise the plan as the patient&#8217;s condition evolves&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_the_Clinical_Judgment_Measurement_Model_CJMM_Fits_In\"><\/span>How the Clinical Judgment Measurement Model (CJMM) Fits In&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The <strong>National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN)<\/strong> developed the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nclex.com\/clinical-judgment-measurement-model.page\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Clinical Judgment Measurement Model (CJMM)<\/a><\/strong>, which aligns closely with the traditional <strong>ADPIE <a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/The_nursing_process\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">nursing process<\/a><\/strong>. It is a helpful framework designed for nurses to apply their <strong>clinical judgment skills<\/strong> and make decisions about patient care, while also recognizing that <strong>clinical decision-making <\/strong>is a complex and ongoing process. <strong>Layer 3<\/strong> of the CJMM describes aspects of clinical decision making that closely align with the <strong>ADPIE process<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here&#8217;s a breakdown of this CJMM layer and how it integrates with ADPIE:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"540\" src=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/10\/ADPIE_in_action_chart.png\" alt=\"TITLE: ADPIE in Action\n\nRecognize Cues: Relevant patient data is gathered\u202f \/ Assessment\u202f \n\nAnalyze Cues: Data is interpreted to identify patient problems\u202f \/ Diagnosis\u202f \n\nPrioritize Hypotheses: Weigh possible causes of patient problems and determine which need urgent attention\u202f \/ Diagnosis\u202f \n\nGenerate Solutions: Develop nursing interventions based on prioritized hypotheses\u202f \/ Planning\u202f \n\nTake Action: Carry out the planned interventions\u202f \/  Implementation\u202f \n\nEvaluate Outcomes: Determine the effectiveness of interventions and adjust care as needed, like the evaluation phase of ADPIE\u202f \/ Evaluation\u202f \" class=\"wp-image-8781\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.2963259090043784;width:556px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/10\/ADPIE_in_action_chart.png 700w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/10\/ADPIE_in_action_chart.png?resize=300,231 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a id=\"_msocom_1\"><\/a><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Case_study_-_Acute_pancreatitis:_Nursing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Explore a case study using the CJMM to plan patient care -&gt;<\/a> &nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Supporting_Better_Patient_Outcomes_with_Care_Plans\"><\/span>Supporting Better Patient Outcomes with Care Plans&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A well-crafted <strong>nursing care plan<\/strong> is more than a form; it is a <strong>roadmap for safe, effective, and personalized patient care<\/strong>. By following the <strong>ADPIE framework<\/strong>, setting <strong>SMART goals<\/strong>, and selecting thoughtful <strong>interventions<\/strong>, <strong>RN students<\/strong> can strengthen <strong>clinical reasoning<\/strong>, improve <strong>patient outcomes<\/strong>, and confidently <strong>communicate their care decisions<\/strong>. Remember that <strong>care plans<\/strong> are <strong>dynamic<\/strong>; so, continually <strong>assess<\/strong>, <strong>implement<\/strong>, <strong>evaluate<\/strong>, and <strong>revise<\/strong> them to meet the <strong>evolving needs of your patients<\/strong>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Key_Takeaways\"><\/span>Key Takeaways<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Nursing care plans guide individualized, organized patient care using ADPIE steps.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Assessment gathers subjective and objective data to identify patient needs.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Nursing diagnoses prioritize problems using frameworks like NANDA-I and Maslow\u2019s hierarchy.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Planning sets SMART goals and selects independent, dependent, and collaborative interventions.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Evaluation measures outcomes and revises the plan as patient conditions change.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Reviewers\"><\/span>Reviewers<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/profile\/Maria-Pfrommer\"><strong>Maria Pfrommer, DNP, Ph.D., FNP-BC, RN, Director of Nursing Content<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/profile\/mary-roberts\"><strong>Mary Roberts MSN, RN, Content Manager<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/profile\/lisa-miklush\"><strong>Lisa Miklush, PhD, RNC, CNS, Senior Content Editor<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Resources_References\"><\/span>Resources &amp; References&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/answers\/maslows-hierarchy-of-needs-in-nursing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Maslow&#8217;s Hierarchy of Needs in Nursing (Osmosis)<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK591814\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Appendix A: Sample NANDA-I Diagnoses<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/nursing.uiowa.edu\/cncce\/nursing-interventions-classification-overview\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">NIC Overview<\/a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/nursa.com\/blog\/nanda-nursing-diagnosis-list-examples\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/nursa.com\/blog\/nanda-nursing-diagnosis-list-examples<\/a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ebsco.com\/research-starters\/consumer-health\/gordons-functional-health-patterns\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.ebsco.com\/research-starters\/consumer-health\/gordons-functional-health-patterns<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.usa.edu\/blog\/how-to-write-a-care-plan\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Nursing Care Plan: Guide with Example &amp; Writing Tips<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Gulanick M, Myers JL, Bowman-Woodall C, eds. <em>Nursing Care Plans: Diagnoses, Interventions, &amp; Outcomes.<\/em> 11th ed. Elsevier; 2025. ISBN: 978-0-443-10527-2.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/nclex.com\/clinical-judgment-measurement-model.page\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/nclex.com\/clinical-judgment-measurement-model.page<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/evolve.elsevier.com\/education\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/04\/Advancing_Clinical_Judgment_in_the_Nursing_Classroom.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/evolve.elsevier.com\/education\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/04\/Advancing_Clinical_Judgment_in_the_Nursing_Classroom.pdf<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><a href=\"http:\/\/osmosis.org\/plans\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\" src=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/03\/Blog_Display_Ads_RN1_2023.png?w=700\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-5423\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/03\/Blog_Display_Ads_RN1_2023.png 700w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/03\/Blog_Display_Ads_RN1_2023.png?resize=300,107 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Try <strong>Osmosis from Elsevier <\/strong>today! Get your&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/plans\"><strong>free trial<\/strong><\/a>&nbsp;and find out why millions of current and future <strong>clinicians and caregivers love learning by Osmosis<\/strong>.<\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Learn the steps to create clear, personalized nursing care plans using ADPIE. Prioritize assessments, formulate diagnoses, set SMART goals, and evaluate patient progress confidently.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":177,"featured_media":8707,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[10,21,29,32],"tags":[2050,2057,628,489,274,2049,1663,2055,245,2054,2053,787,264,2052,2051,1545],"class_list":["post-8704","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-clinical-skills","category-guides","category-nclex","category-nursing","tag-adpie-process","tag-cjmm","tag-clinical-judgment","tag-clinical-reasoning","tag-nursing-assessment","tag-nursing-care-plan","tag-nursing-diagnosis","tag-nursing-documentation","tag-nursing-education","tag-nursing-evaluation","tag-nursing-implementation","tag-nursing-interventions","tag-nursing-practice","tag-nursing-student-tips","tag-patient-care-planning","tag-smart-goals"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v23.6 - 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