What term refers to the conditions that contribute to a patient problem in a nursing diagnosis?

What term refers to the conditions that contribute to a patient problem in a nursing diagnosis?

• A. Etiology
• B. Defining characteristics
• C. Outcome criteria
• D. Goal

Answer: (A)

Etiology is the term for the conditions that contribute to a patient problem in a nursing diagnosis. It describes the causes or contributing factors that maintain or worsen the problem, such as infection, immobility, or environmental risks. Identifying the etiology helps nurses target interventions at the underlying factors rather than just addressing the surface symptoms. The signs and symptoms that actually demonstrate the problem are the defining characteristics, which you observe and document. Outcome criteria are the specific, measurable results you expect after interventions, and a goal is the desired state you want the patient to achieve.

Etiology is the term for the conditions that contribute to a patient problem in a nursing diagnosis. It describes the causes or contributing factors that maintain or worsen the problem, such as infection, immobility, or environmental risks. Identifying the etiology helps nurses target interventions at the underlying factors rather than just addressing the surface symptoms. The signs and symptoms that actually demonstrate the problem are the defining characteristics, which you observe and document. Outcome criteria are the specific, measurable results you expect after interventions, and a goal is the desired state you want the patient to achieve.