What is the Role of the Chief Complaint in Developing a Care Plan?
The chief complaint plays a pivotal role in the care plan development process. It helps nurses identify the primary focus of care and prioritize interventions. Additionally, it can guide the selection of appropriate nursing diagnoses and the setting of measurable outcomes. For instance, if a patient's chief complaint is "shortness of breath," the care plan will likely include interventions related to respiratory assessment and management.
