What should a nurse prioritize when developing a care plan for a patient?

When developing a care plan for a patient, prioritizing the patient's safety and specific health needs is fundamentally important because it ensures that the plan is tailored to provide the best outcomes for the individual's well-being. A care plan focused on patient safety acknowledges potential risks and implements strategies to mitigate them. This includes understanding the patient's medical history, current condition, and any specific requirements they may have, such as dietary restrictions, mobility needs, or medication management.

By centering the care plan around the patient's unique situation, the nurse is able to advocate for the best medical practices and interventions that align with the patient's goals and preferences while ensuring they are safe throughout their care journey. This patient-centered approach fosters trust and engagement, as individuals feel heard and supported in their healthcare decisions.

Other options, such as the nurse's personal preferences, hospital policies, or the duration of the patient’s stay, are secondary to the primary objective of ensuring patient safety and addressing specific health needs. While these factors may influence the care plan in some way, they should always take a back seat to the primary commitment to the patient's health and safety.