What should nurses do if a patient’s outcomes do not align with expected results?

When a patient’s outcomes do not align with expected results, it is crucial for nurses to take proactive steps to address the situation. Altering the care plan as necessary allows for a tailored approach that meets the unique needs of the patient based on their current condition and response to treatment. This action signifies that the nurse is engaged in critical thinking and patient-centered care, actively assessing the effectiveness of interventions.

By modifying the care plan, nurses can collaborate with the healthcare team to implement alternative strategies, adjust medication dosages, or incorporate new therapies that may better support the patient's recovery. This responsiveness is key to improving patient outcomes and ensuring that care provided remains relevant and effective.

In contrast, notifying the patient's family might be important at different stages, yet it does not directly address the immediate need to revise care plans based on the patient's current status. Ignoring discrepancies fails to recognize the dynamic nature of patient care and can lead to further complications. Lastly, simply documenting the issue without making changes could be seen as neglecting the responsibility of a nurse to advocate for and actively engage in the well-being of their patients.