A well-written patient outcome statement should be measurable and have a specific time frame.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Sometimes
• D. Not sure

Answer: (A)

Outcomes in nursing care planning must be measurable and anchored in a specific time frame so progress can be objectively assessed and the plan adjusted if needed. This uses a SMART-style approach: the goal should specify exactly what will be achieved, how it will be measured, and by when.

A well-written outcome statement translates into an observable, verifiable target. For example, “The patient will report a pain level of 3 or less on a 0–10 scale within 24 hours” gives a numeric criterion and a deadline. With this, you can readily determine whether the goal was met and evaluate the effectiveness of interventions.

That’s why the correct choice is that this is true. It’s not appropriate to say it isn’t necessary, or that it depends, or to be uncertain, because measurable, time-bound outcomes are essential for clear, evaluable nursing care plans.