Difference Between Nursing Diagnosis, Medical Diagnosis and Collaborative Problems

Nursing Diagnosis

A statement about the client's actual or potential health concerns that can be managed through independent nursing interventions. (Concerned with the person and how the disease affects his/her functioning.) Ex: (PES, Problem/diagnostic label, Etiology/cause, Signs/symptoms) "Airway clearance is ineffective (P) related to excessive mucus production (E) as manifested by shortness of breath on exertion (S)."

Medical Diagnosis

Identifies the disease a person has or is believed to have. (Concerned with the actual disease process)

Collaborative Problem

Working together with a physician or other healthcare provider. (If a problem needs medication to resolve, the nurse cannot give/prescribe any meds so collaboration is needed.)