Nursing Interventions II: Selecting and Classifying the Nursing Interventions

Nursing interventions are selected based on several factors.

First, they should be based on the desired patient outcome. This helps to evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention.

Second, the interventions should consider the characteristics of the nursing diagnosis.

This aims to alter etiological factors, treat signs and symptoms, or eliminate risk factors.

Third, the intervention should be based on evidence-based research. This helps nurses implement and evaluate interventions based on specific patient groups.

In cases where research in a particular field may be inadequate, expert opinion or scientific principles can guide the intervention.

Fourth, interventions should be selected according to their feasibility, such as in terms of time and cost.

The fifth consideration is based on the patient's acceptability—as nurses should involve patients when planning their interventions and take their values, beliefs, and cultures into account.

Lastly, interventions are selected based on the nurse's capability. For example, they may depend on the nurse's psychomotor or psychosocial abilities.

In order to compare nursing outcomes globally, the Nursing Interventions Classification, or NIC, provides a systematic, research-based, and standardized set of guidelines for interventions.