Which action by the nurse demonstrates the evaluation phase of the nursing process?

Rationale: A. The evaluation phase is the final step in the nursing process, focusing on determining the effectiveness of nursing interventions and whether the client’s goals have been achieved. Reviewing a client’s response to a new diabetic medication exemplifies this phase because the nurse is assessing outcomes such as changes in blood glucose levels, symptom improvement, or adverse effects. During evaluation, the nurse compares actual results with expected outcomes, identifies any discrepancies, and decides whether to continue, modify, or discontinue the intervention. This process ensures that care remains individualized and effective, and it informs subsequent nursing decisions to optimize client health. B. Administering prescribed insulin is part of the implementation phase, where the nurse carries out planned interventions to meet client goals. While administration is essential for treatment, it does not include assessing or analyzing the effects of the intervention, which is the hallmark of evaluation. C. Developing a care plan for hypertension management occurs during the planning phase of the nursing process. This involves identifying client problems, setting measurable goals, and selecting appropriate interventions. Planning sets the foundation for care but does not involve assessing outcomes or effectiveness. D. Ordering diagnostic blood tests is generally part of the assessment or implementation phase. While test results may later inform evaluation, the act of ordering tests does not represent evaluation itself because it does not involve analyzing outcomes or determining whether interventions were successful.