A nurse is caring for a client who has a fever, cough, and shortness of breath. The nurse suspects that the client has pneumonia and orders a chest x-ray and blood cultures. Which of the following actions by the nurse demonstrate critical thinking?

Choice A:

Comparing the client's vital signs with the normal ranges is a basic nursing skill that does not require critical thinking. It is part of the assessment process, but it does not involve analysis, interpretation, or evaluation of the data. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

Choice B:

Asking the client about his medical history and allergies is also a basic nursing skill that does not require critical thinking. It is part of the assessment process, but it does not involve analysis, interpretation, or evaluation of the data. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

Choice C :

Explaining to the client the purpose and procedure of the tests is an example of critical thinking because it involves applying knowledge, skills, and attitudes to provide patient-centered care. The nurse uses critical thinking to determine what information the client needs to know, how to communicate it effectively, and how to evaluate the client's understanding. Therefore, this choice is correct.

Choice D :

Administering an antipyretic medication to the client is a standard nursing intervention that does not require critical thinking. It is part of the implementation process, but it does not involve analysis, interpretation, or evaluation of the data. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

Choice E:

Documenting the client's condition and interventions in the chart is a legal and ethical responsibility of the nurse that does not require critical thinking. It is part of the communication process, but it does not involve analysis, interpretation, or evaluation of the data. Therefore, this choice is incorrect. Source:.

Choice A:

This statement is correct and does not indicate a need for further teaching. Reflection is one of the key elements of critical thinking in nursing, as it allows nurses to examine their own actions and decisions and learn from them.

Choice B:

This statement is also correct and does not indicate a need for further teaching. Analysis is another key element of critical thinking in nursing, as it involves breaking down a complex situation into smaller parts that can be understood and evaluated.

Choice C:

This statement is incorrect and indicates a need for further teaching. Inference is not making assumptions based on one's experience, but rather drawing logical conclusions from the available evidence. Making assumptions can lead to errors in judgment and compromise patient safety. Nurses should use critical thinking to question their assumptions and biases and seek reliable and valid information.

Choice D:

This statement is correct and does not indicate a need for further teaching. Evaluation is another key element of critical thinking in nursing, as it involves checking the reliability and validity of information that is used to make decisions. Nurses should use critical thinking to assess the sources, methods, and outcomes of information they encounter in their practice.