Common Nursing Diagnoses to Know for Foundations of Nursing Practice

Understanding common nursing diagnoses is essential for effective patient care. These diagnoses highlight key health issues, guiding nurses in assessment and intervention strategies to improve patient outcomes and support overall well-being in various clinical situations.

1. Acute Pain

   • Sudden onset, often due to injury or surgery.
   • Can lead to physiological and psychological stress responses.
   • Requires prompt assessment and management to prevent complications.

2. Impaired Physical Mobility

   • Limited ability to move freely due to pain, weakness, or injury.
   • Increases risk for complications such as pressure ulcers and deep vein thrombosis.
   • Requires interventions to promote mobility and prevent deconditioning.

3. Risk for Infection

   • Increased susceptibility due to compromised immune function or invasive procedures.
   • Requires vigilant monitoring for signs of infection and preventive measures.
   • Education on hygiene and wound care is essential for prevention.

4. Anxiety

   • Emotional response to perceived threats or stressors, affecting overall well-being.
   • Can lead to physical symptoms such as increased heart rate and muscle tension.
   • Requires assessment and interventions to promote relaxation and coping strategies.

5. Ineffective Breathing Pattern

   • Abnormal respiratory rate or depth, often due to pain or anxiety.
   • Can lead to inadequate oxygenation and respiratory complications.
   • Requires monitoring and interventions to promote effective breathing techniques.

6. Impaired Skin Integrity

   • Damage to the skin due to pressure, moisture, or friction.
   • Increases risk for infection and delayed healing.
   • Requires regular skin assessments and appropriate wound care.

7. Disturbed Sleep Pattern

   • Disruptions in sleep due to pain, anxiety, or environmental factors.
   • Can lead to fatigue and impaired cognitive function.
   • Requires assessment of sleep hygiene and interventions to promote restful sleep.

8. Imbalanced Nutrition: Less Than Body Requirements

   • Inadequate intake of nutrients leading to weight loss and malnutrition.
   • Can result from illness, pain, or difficulty swallowing.
   • Requires nutritional assessment and interventions to improve dietary intake.

9. Activity Intolerance

   • Insufficient physical or mental energy to engage in daily activities.
   • Can be caused by pain, fatigue, or underlying health conditions.
   • Requires gradual increase in activity levels and monitoring for tolerance.

10. Deficient Fluid Volume

    • Dehydration due to inadequate fluid intake or excessive loss.
    • Can lead to serious complications such as kidney failure and electrolyte imbalances.
    • Requires assessment of fluid status and interventions to promote hydration.

11. Chronic Pain

    • Persistent pain lasting longer than six months, often with no clear cause.
    • Can lead to physical and emotional challenges, affecting quality of life.
    • Requires comprehensive pain management strategies and support.

12. Ineffective Coping

    • Inability to manage stressors effectively, leading to emotional distress.
    • Can result in maladaptive behaviors and decreased functioning.
    • Requires assessment of coping mechanisms and interventions to enhance resilience.

13. Risk for Falls

    • Increased likelihood of falling due to impaired mobility, weakness, or environmental hazards.
    • Can lead to serious injuries such as fractures or head trauma.
    • Requires fall risk assessments and implementation of safety measures.

14. Impaired Urinary Elimination

    • Difficulty in urination due to obstruction, infection, or neurological issues.
    • Can lead to discomfort and complications such as urinary retention.
    • Requires assessment and interventions to promote normal urinary function.

15. Constipation

    • Infrequent or difficult bowel movements, often due to inadequate fiber or fluid intake.
    • Can lead to discomfort and complications such as fecal impaction.
    • Requires dietary modifications and interventions to promote regular bowel habits.