In the nursing process, what step follows the assessment?

In the nursing process, the step that follows assessment is diagnosis. This phase involves analyzing the data collected during the assessment to identify the patient's health problems. The nurse synthesizes information regarding the patient's medical history, current symptoms, and other significant factors to formulate a nursing diagnosis. This diagnosis provides a framework for developing an appropriate care plan tailored to address the specific needs and health issues of the patient.

Through diagnosis, nurses can communicate effectively about patient status and focus on interventions that can facilitate a better health outcome. This critical step guides the planning of care, where specific goals and interventions are established based on the identified diagnoses. It lays the foundation for the subsequent steps in the nursing process, ensuring that care is systematic, evidence-based, and patient-centered.