AON Assessment Practice Test 2025 - Free Practice Questions and Study Guide

The nursing process consists of a systematic series of steps that guide the practice of nursing, ensuring comprehensive and effective patient care. The recognized steps include assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation (which can be interpreted as execution), and evaluation.

The term 'execution' is not traditionally used within the framework of the nursing process. Instead, a more universally accepted term is 'implementation,' which refers to the actual carrying out of nursing interventions as outlined in the planning phase. While execution may imply the act of doing, in the context of nursing, it’s important to use the correct terminology that aligns with established practices and guidelines in the field.

The other steps—evaluation, planning, and diagnosis—are fundamental components of the nursing process. Evaluation is the step where outcomes are assessed to determine the effectiveness of the care provided. Planning involves creating a care plan based on the patient’s needs identified during assessment and diagnosis. Diagnosis is the critical step where nurses analyze patient data to determine actual or potential health issues, forming the basis for the subsequent steps.