Final answer:
The nurse compares actual nursing outcomes with expected outcomes to determine if progress has been made or if the care plan needs revisions.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a nurse compares actual nursing outcomes to the expected nursing outcomes, the purpose is to determine if progress is made or to determine if revisions are needed in the patient's care plan. This process involves reviewing patient history, confirming procedures, counting equipment, checking specimen labels, and ensuring equipment sterility. It's a critical step to ensure patient safety and to refine treatments as needed. Iterative assessments help guide nursing interventions and ensure effective care, thereby addressing potential health problems in a timely and efficient manner.