Which of the following guidelines should be least considered in formulating objectives for nursing care?
A. Written nursing care plan
B. Holistic approach
C. Prescribed standards
D. Staff preferences
Correct Answer: D. Staff preferences
Staff preferences should be the least priority in formulating objectives of nursing care. Individual preferences should be subordinate to the interest of the patients. Along with clinical guidelines, patient preferences provide direction for selecting treatment options and tailoring interventions. Patient preferences also help inform choice in clinical decisions where science has yet to provide dominant solutions to health care problems.
Option A: Care plans help nurses focus on patients in a holistic, big-picture way so they can deliver evidence-based, patient-centered care. Care plans also help hospitals ensure continuity of care across nursing shifts, promote inter-professional collaboration by getting everyone on the same page, and meet documentation requirements for insurers and governing bodies.
Option B: A holistic approach means providing the support that looks at the whole person, not just their mental health needs. The support should also consider their physical, emotional, social, and spiritual wellbeing. A holistic approach focuses on a person’s wellness and not just their illness or condition.
Option C: Standards of care in nursing are guidelines that provide a foundation as to how a nurse should act, and what they should and should not do in their professional capacity. These policies and procedures are guidelines that all nurses must follow.