Evolve HESI Practice Exam

After determining a client has a problem, what should the nurse do next?

1. Implement a care plan immediately

2. Determine the etiology of the problem

3. Document the assessment findings

4. Notify the healthcare provider

The correct answer is: Determine the etiology of the problem

Determining the etiology of a problem is a crucial step in the nursing process, which is essential for successful patient care. When a nurse identifies a client has a problem, understanding the underlying cause or etiology is necessary to ensure that appropriate interventions can be developed and implemented. This step allows the nurse to target the care plan effectively, addressing not just the symptoms but also the root cause of the issue. Once the etiology is established, the nurse can proceed to develop a comprehensive care plan tailored specifically to the client’s needs. This ensures safe and effective care, as interventions can be prioritized based on the problem's nature and severity. In contrast, while implementing a care plan is a critical aspect of nursing, it should follow the assessment and diagnostic phase to ensure that it is relevant and directed at the proper issues. Documentation of assessment findings is vital, but it acts as a record rather than a direct action addressing the problem's cause. Notifying the healthcare provider may be necessary, but this decision should come after understanding the client's condition in detail and determining a plan of action based on the etiology found.