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3. The "Road Map" 

A map is often helpful when driving in unfamiliar places. In the same way, a

map can be helpful in managing the care of our patients.

Drawing your Map

The first step is to make a problem list for the patient. Problems are moved

up or down the list depending on how well they fit with the patient’s

presenting symptoms. This is the beginning of our map.

Decide Which Test is First

By evaluating the list, the nurse can decide which diagnostic tests would

give the most information and should be done first. Initial diagnostic tests

should help narrow the list down to the most likely problem. This step adds

detail to our map.

Determine the Interventions

Once the most likely problem is defined, better interventions can be

implemented. When interventions are focused on a specific problem, they

will be more effective.

Better Interventions

Initial interventions should focus on preventing complications. To decide

which interventions to do first, ask yourself “what is the worst thing that

could happen?’, and focus on preventing that outcome.

For example: if the worst thing that will happen as a result of the patient’s

problem is he will go into shock — then focus on interventions that will

prevent and treat shock.

Know Where You Are

By using a problem list to define the problem, order diagnostic tests, and

plan interventions nurses will know where they are going with their patient’s

care.  

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