What does preliminary assessment involve in nursing?

Preliminary assessment in nursing refers to the initial evaluation of a patient’s health status. This first assessment is crucial as it allows the nurse to gather essential baseline data on the patient, including demographic information, medical history, current symptoms, vital signs, and any other relevant health information. This comprehensive understanding of the patient's condition helps in formulating an appropriate care plan, identifying urgent needs, and implementing necessary interventions.

A thorough preliminary assessment sets the stage for subsequent evaluations and ongoing patient care, ensuring that the healthcare team has a clear understanding of the patient's needs from the outset. It is the foundational step that guides the direction of nursing interventions and overall management of the patient's health.