Final answer:
4. Resolution of a nursing diagnosis or maintenance of a healthy state. A nursing goal indicates the resolution of a nursing diagnosis or maintenance of a healthy state and should be established using the SMART criteria to be clear, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. Setting SMART goals assists in creating structured action plans and ensures effective and trackable outcomes in patient care.
Step-by-step explanation:
In response to the question, a goal specifies the expected behavior or response that indicates the resolution of a nursing diagnosis or maintenance of a healthy state. When establishing goals within the healthcare setting, particularly within nursing, it's crucial to make each goal SMART, which stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. These guidelines serve to clarify and structure the objective to ensure it's actionable and measurable.
A specific goal is clear and detailed, defining precisely what is expected. Measurability allows both the nurse and others to observe the progress towards achieving this goal. The goal also must be achievable and relevant; this means that the goal should be realistic, considering the barriers that can be overcome, and it should be aligned with other objectives to support overall health outcomes. Finally, goals must be time-bound by having a specific deadline to provide a sense of urgency and help track the progression.
Once SMART goals are set, an action plan with step-by-step procedures to reach these goals can be established. This includes determining the resources and actions needed, and setting a target date for each action to monitor progress. This structured approach ensures that the intended outcomes of nursing care are met effectively.