Texas Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

What is a method or way of doing something called?

1. Task

2. Process

3. Procedure

4. Protocol

The correct answer is: Procedure

The term that refers to a method or way of doing something is "procedure." In various contexts, a procedure outlines specific steps or guidelines that must be followed to achieve a particular task or outcome. This structured approach is key in healthcare settings, where following procedures ensures that care is delivered safely and effectively. In nursing and healthcare environments, procedures are critical as they provide unambiguous instructions for staff to follow, thereby minimizing the risk of errors and enhancing the quality of patient care. They can encompass everything from how to conduct a patient assessment to the proper way to administer medications. While "process" is a broader term that refers to a series of actions or steps taken to achieve an end, "protocol" usually refers to a specific set of rules or guidelines, often in a clinical context. "Task" is typically a smaller action within a larger procedure or process. Thus, "procedure" is the most accurate term to specifically describe a set method for performing actions.