Which component of the nursing process involves gathering patient information?

The component of the nursing process that involves gathering patient information is assessment. In this phase, nurses collect comprehensive data about the patient's health status, which includes both subjective information, such as the patient's symptoms or feelings, and objective information, such as vital signs and lab results.

The assessment forms the foundation for the entire nursing process, as it provides essential insights that guide diagnosis and subsequent nursing interventions. By thoroughly assessing a patient, nurses can identify health problems, determine the care needed, and establish a baseline for measuring changes in the patient’s condition over time. This step is crucial for forming an accurate diagnosis and planning effective intervention strategies.