Which statement best identifies a well-written objective for discharge education?

Which statement best identifies a well-written objective for discharge education?

• A. Upon discharge, the client will list three ways to protect the feet from injury
• B. The client will be provided with several feet care instructions
• C. The patient will understand the importance of foot protection
• D. The patient will receive foot care education

Answer: (A)

Clear, measurable outcomes that show what the patient can do after education are essential. The best statement requires the client to list three ways to protect the feet from injury by the time of discharge. It specifies an observable action (list), a clear criterion (three items), and a deadline (upon discharge), so you can verify exactly what the patient can recall and articulate. The other options fall short because they describe what is provided or what the patient understands, rather than a demonstrable action the patient will take. Saying the client will receive instructions or will understand the importance doesn’t show an observable behavior or a measurable endpoint, and it omits a time frame for assessment.

Clear, measurable outcomes that show what the patient can do after education are essential. The best statement requires the client to list three ways to protect the feet from injury by the time of discharge. It specifies an observable action (list), a clear criterion (three items), and a deadline (upon discharge), so you can verify exactly what the patient can recall and articulate.

The other options fall short because they describe what is provided or what the patient understands, rather than a demonstrable action the patient will take. Saying the client will receive instructions or will understand the importance doesn’t show an observable behavior or a measurable endpoint, and it omits a time frame for assessment.