What are the steps of the nursing process in the correct sequence?

• A. Assessment, Diagnosis, Planning, Implementation, Evaluation
• B. Assessment, Planning, Diagnosis, Implementation, Evaluation
• C. Diagnosis, Assessment, Planning, Implementation, Evaluation
• D. Assessment, Evaluation, Planning, Implementation, Diagnosis

Answer: (A)

The nursing process follows a logical cycle: start with Assessment to gather all relevant data about the patient, then form a Nursing Diagnosis based on that data to identify actual or potential problems. Next comes Planning, where you set measurable goals and select appropriate nursing interventions. After that is Implementation, carrying out the planned care. Finally, Evaluation determines whether the goals were met and whether the plan needs to be modified, which may loop you back to reassessment and adjustment.

This order matters because you can’t plan or intervene effectively without accurate data and a clear problem statement, and evaluation confirms the effectiveness of the care and guides any needed changes.