Which step in the nursing process assesses if goals were achieved?

The step in the nursing process that assesses if goals were achieved is evaluation. In this phase, the nurse determines whether the expected outcomes of the care plan have been met and if the goals set during the planning phase have been accomplished. This involves reviewing patient progress and outcomes, and it may lead to adjustments in the care plan if the goals were not met.

Evaluation is critical because it ensures that the care provided is effective and that the patient's needs are being addressed. By continually assessing the effectiveness of the interventions, healthcare providers can refine their strategies to improve patient care and outcomes. This iterative process reflects the dynamic nature of nursing practice, enabling professionals to respond to changing patient conditions and needs over time.