Question

What is the primary difference between a risk nursing diagnosis and an actual nursing diagnosis?

1) Defining characteristics are not part of a risk diagnosis.
2) There is no cause and effect relationship established.
3) Defining characteristics are subjective in a risk diagnosis.
4) There are no nursing interventions prescribed with a risk diagnosis.

Answer 1

The main difference lies in defining characteristics which are present in an actual nursing diagnosis, but not in a risk nursing diagnosis. A risk nursing diagnosis is focused on prevention, while an actual nursing diagnosis addresses current signs and symptoms.

Step-by-step explanation:

The primary difference between a risk nursing diagnosis and an actual nursing diagnosis is that defining characteristics are not part of a risk diagnosis. An actual nursing diagnosis is based on evidenced signs and symptoms that are present, while a risk nursing diagnosis is about potential problems that could develop if nurses do not intervene. A risk nursing diagnosis does not include nursing interventions; instead, it identifies potential areas of concern so that preventive measures can be planned and implemented.