Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN Degree) Practice Exam

The distinction between an actual nursing diagnosis and a risk nursing diagnosis is primarily centered around the concept of current versus potential problems. An actual nursing diagnosis identifies a problem that is present at the time of assessment, representing a condition where there are objective signs and subjective symptoms observed in the patient. For example, a patient with pneumonia may present with a cough, fever, and difficulty breathing, which collectively constitute an actual nursing diagnosis.

Conversely, a risk nursing diagnosis identifies conditions that are likely to develop in vulnerable patients, even though they are not currently experiencing them. This means that the individual has risk factors that could lead to a health problem but does not yet exhibit any signs or symptoms. For example, a patient who is immobile is at risk for developing pressure ulcers, thus a risk nursing diagnosis would be appropriate.

This understanding of actual versus risk nursing diagnoses is essential for effective nursing care, as it guides the nurse in planning interventions to address current health issues as well as preventative measures for potential health threats. The other options do not accurately capture the fundamental difference outlined in this context. Medications and therapy, patient demographics, or distinguishing between diagnosis and prognosis do not adequately define the crucial aspect of presence versus absence of a health issue, which is at the heart of