1. Assessment: Nurses assess patients using standardized criteria to determine their care needs. This may include vital signs, mobility, cognitive status, and other relevant factors. 2. Scoring: Patients are scored based on the assessment criteria, often using a point system. 3. Classification: Based on the scores, patients are classified into different categories or levels of care, such as low, medium, or high acuity. 4. Staff Assignment: Nurses are assigned to patients based on the classification to ensure that each patient receives appropriate care.