What is the purpose of a care plan in nursing?

The purpose of a care plan in nursing is to ensure individualized care is delivered based on a patient's specific needs. A care plan is a comprehensive document that outlines the patient's diagnosis, goals, interventions, and evaluations. It is tailored to meet the unique requirements of each patient, taking into account their medical history, preferences, and specific health issues. This personalized approach helps healthcare providers to address the patient's needs effectively, monitor their progress, and make adjustments as necessary to improve health outcomes.

While providing a schedule for medication administration is important, it is typically just one component of the comprehensive care plan rather than its entire purpose. Minimizing time spent with each patient runs counter to the philosophy of patient-centered care, which prioritizes quality interaction and attention. Enforcing hospital policies on medication may be part of the overall healthcare framework but does not encapsulate the main goal of a care plan, which is focused on personalized patient care.