Which of the following is a potential limitation of the ICER framework?

Choosing the first option highlights a significant concern regarding the ICER framework, which is the potential to overlook qualitative patient outcomes. The ICER (Institute for Clinical and Economic Review) framework primarily focuses on quantitative measures, like cost-effectiveness and clinical outcomes based on numerical data. While these quantitative assessments are vital for decision-making in healthcare, they may fail to adequately capture the subjective experiences and quality of life impacts that are crucial to patient care.

Qualitative outcomes refer to factors like patient satisfaction, emotional wellbeing, and overall quality of life, which cannot easily be quantified but are essential for understanding the full impact of a treatment or intervention. When a framework emphasizes numeric data, there's a risk that the complexities and nuances of patient experiences and preferences are undervalued or ignored, potentially leading to healthcare decisions that do not align with the needs and values of patients.

Addressing these limitations in the ICER framework can ultimately enhance its effectiveness by incorporating patient-centered approaches that reflect the importance of holistic, comprehensive care in nursing and healthcare practice.