What are the four main types of nursing diagnoses?

The four main types of nursing diagnoses are actual, risk, wellness, and syndrome because they encompass the different conditions and needs that nurses may assess in their patients. Actual diagnoses refer to existing health problems that are identified through clinical assessment and objective data, allowing for targeted interventions. Risk diagnoses identify potential health issues that a patient may develop based on their current health status and environmental factors, helping nurses to implement preventive measures.

Wellness diagnoses highlight areas where patients can enhance their well-being or achieve optimal health outcomes, focusing on their strengths and resources. Finally, syndrome diagnoses group several related nursing diagnoses that share common characteristics, aiding in the organization and prioritization of care strategies. These categories provide a comprehensive framework for nursing practice, enabling nurses to formulate effective care plans tailored to individual patient needs.