Question

the nurse has identified the following outcome for the client: the client will have a soft, formed stool. which error has the nurse made in writing the outcome?

• the nurse has not made any error in writing the outcome.
• the nurse has omitted the defining characteristics.
• the outcome should indicate what the nurse will do.
• the nurse has omitted the time frame.

Explanation:

Analyze the written outcome

Using the Outcome Criteria knowledge point, we evaluate the statement: "The client will have a soft, formed stool."

A properly written client outcome must be SMART: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Timed (possessing a clear target time frame).

Identify the missing component

The statement specifies the subject ("The client"), the measurable action/result ("will have a soft, formed stool"), but it does not state when this outcome is expected to be achieved (e.g., "by the end of the shift" or "within 48 hours"). Therefore, the nurse has omitted the time frame.

Answer:

• (A) The nurse has not made any error in writing the outcome.
• (B) The nurse has omitted the defining characteristics.
• (C) The outcome should indicate what the nurse will do.
• (D) The nurse has omitted the time frame. (Correct answer)