The registered psychiatric nurse collects information in order to assess the individual's health status through observations based on knowledge of nursing and of behavioral and physical sciences.

Rationale:
Organized observation is a prerequisite for realistic assessment of an individual's needs and for formulation of appropriate nursing intervention.

Knowledge acquired in the study of nursing, behavioral and physical sciences fosters acuity of perception and alerts the Registered Psychiatric Nurse to physical, psychological, cultural, social and spiritual data.

Audit Factors:

1. Collects data to assess the individual's health status using a comprehensive system.
2. Analyzes data to identify and priorize nursing diagnosis.
3. Uses knowledge gained from the individual and other appropriate sources to develop a comprehensive understanding of the individual's experience.
4. Discusses and validates observations with the individual and other appropriate persons.
5. Records assessment data in order to establish baseline of functioning and to facilitate sharing of information.