The nursing process is cyclic rather than linear. Because of the cyclic nature, as an individual patient's condition changes:
A) The nurse's thought processes do not have to vary.
B) Plans of care are easier to use and do not need modification.
C) The accuracy and effectiveness of thought processes must be considered.
D) Reflective thought is not necessary since issues tend to be repetitive.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The nursing process is cyclic rather than linear. As an individual patient's condition changes, so does the way a professional nurse thinks about that patient's needs, forcing modification of earlier plans of care. At each step of the nursing process, nurses must consider the accuracy and effectiveness of their thought process. This form of reflective thought is an essential aspect of critical thinking. The evolutionary nature of the nursing process allows nurses to adjust to changing patient needs. Plans of care must evolve as patients' needs change.

The Nursing Process Is Cyclic Rather Than Linear