What does the nursing process step of evaluation primarily assess?

The nursing process step of evaluation primarily assesses patient outcomes and medication effectiveness because it focuses on determining the extent to which the goals established during the planning phase have been met. Evaluation allows healthcare professionals to determine if the interventions implemented were successful in achieving the desired outcomes for the patient, specifically in relation to their treatment plan. This step is critical as it provides feedback on the effectiveness of the medication regimen and any other nursing interventions, which can guide further action or adjustments in the patient’s care plan.

Furthermore, this step not only encompasses clinical outcomes but also includes assessing the patient's response to the medication—such as the reduction of symptoms or improvement in health status—and any potential side effects. This comprehensive assessment informs ongoing care and education provided to the patient, ensuring that their treatment aligns with their needs and goals.

While patient satisfaction and healthcare needs are important aspects of patient care, they are not the primary focus of the evaluation phase. Resource allocation is also critical within healthcare systems but falls outside the specific scope of individual patient evaluation related to outcomes and medication effectiveness.