Question

Which of the following statements made by a new nursing graduate best reflects an understanding of expected outcomes?

1. It gives the client something positive to strive towards.
2. They are statements of how the client's behavior should change.
3. They are measurable criteria by which I can evaluation whether a goal has been achieved.
4. They provide the client with suggestions on how to achieve their long and short term goals.

Answer 1

The best statement that reflects an understanding of expected outcomes is that they are measurable criteria to evaluate if a goal has been achieved. They should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement made by a new nursing graduate that best reflects an understanding of expected outcomes is "They are measurable criteria by which I can evaluation whether a goal has been achieved." This statement encompasses the essential characteristics of expected outcomes which should be specific, measurable, and achievable to facilitate proper planning and evaluation. Expected outcomes provide a clear and concise way to measure progress towards a goal, and they exert a motivational influence by giving the client a concrete end-point to strive for.

Expected outcomes must also be relevant and time-bound, meaning they should be applicable to the client's situation and have a defined time frame for achievement. The new graduate's understanding reflects that expected outcomes are not just general guidelines, they are detailed statements that have been carefully designed to align with teaching and practice standards in healthcare.