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?
The nurse compares the client's vital signs with the normal ranges.
The nurse asks the client about his medical history and allergies.
The nurse explains to the client the purpose and procedure of the tests.
The nurse administers an antipyretic medication to the client.
The nurse documents the client's condition and interventions in the chart.
The Correct Answer is C
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:.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A:.
This statement does not indicate a lack of critical thinking because the nurse is planning to monitor the client's blood glucose level more frequently to evaluate the effectiveness of the insulin therapy. This is an appropriate nursing intervention for a client who has hyperglycemia.
Choice B :.
This statement does not indicate a lack of critical thinking because the nurse is checking the medication administration record to see if the client received his insulin as prescribed. This is an important step to identify any possible errors or omissions that could have contributed to the client's high blood glucose level.
Choice C:.
This statement indicates a lack of critical thinking because the nurse is increasing the insulin dose by 2 units as per the sliding scale protocol without considering other factors that could affect the client's blood glucose level, such as diet, exercise, stress, or infection. The nurse should not adjust the insulin dose without consulting the provider or following a specific protocol that takes into account the client's individual needs and goals.
Choice D:.
This statement does not indicate a lack of critical thinking because the nurse is asking the client if he ate anything that could have raised his blood sugar level. This is a relevant question to assess the client's dietary intake and adherence to the prescribed meal plan. The nurse should also educate the client about the importance of following a consistent carbohydrate diet and avoiding foods that can spike blood glucose levels.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
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.
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