What is the purpose of assessment in nursing?

Assessment in nursing is fundamentally about gathering information regarding the patient’s health status. This process involves comprehensive data collection, which can include patient history, physical assessments, and sometimes even psychological evaluations. The information gathered during the assessment phase forms the backbone of effective nursing practice, facilitating the nurse's understanding of the patient’s needs and conditions.

By collecting this pertinent information, nurses can identify potential health issues, understand the patient's perspective on their health, and determine the necessary interventions. This foundational step informs all subsequent actions in patient care, including diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation.

In contrast, the other options relate to different aspects of nursing practice. While prescribing medication, administering treatments, and establishing a care plan are all crucial components of nursing, they rely heavily on the thorough assessment that precedes them. Without an accurate and comprehensive assessment, the care provided could be misaligned with the patient's actual needs.