Question

which is a correctly written client outcome?

• the client will eliminate a soft, formed stool.
• the client understands what foods are low in sodium.
• the client will ambulate 10 ft (3 m) with a walker by october 12.
• the client correctly self-administers the morning dose of insulin.

Explanation:

Analyze the components of a correctly written client outcome

Using the Outcome Criteria knowledge point, a properly written client outcome must be SMART: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Timed. It must contain a subject (the client), a measurable action verb, specific conditions or performance criteria, and a target time frame.

Evaluate the given options against SMART criteria

• Option 1: "The client will eliminate a soft, formed stool." This statement lacks a specific target time frame.
• Option 2: "The client understands what foods are low in sodium." The verb "understands" is subjective, cognitive, and not directly measurable or observable.
• Option 3: "The client will ambulate 10 ft (3 m) with a walker by October 12." This statement contains a subject ("The client"), a measurable verb ("will ambulate"), specific conditions/criteria ("10 ft with a walker"), and a clear target date ("by October 12").
• Option 4: "The client correctly self-administers the morning dose of insulin." This statement lacks a clear target time frame for completion.

Identify the correct option

Option 3 is the only statement that fully meets all SMART criteria, specifically including a measurable action and a clear target time frame.

Answer:

• (A) The client will eliminate a soft, formed stool.
• (B) The client understands what foods are low in sodium.
• (C) The client will ambulate 10 ft (3 m) with a walker by October 12. (Correct answer)
• (D) The client correctly self-administers the morning dose of insulin.