Which action by a nurse indicates application of the critical thinking model to make the best clinical decision?

Relying on recall of information from past lectures and textbooks.

Using the nursing process

Drawing on past clinical experiences to formulate standardized care plans.

Depending on the charge nurse to determine priorities of care

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A. Relying on recall of information from past lectures and textbooks. Critical thinking involves applying knowledge, not just recalling it. Nurses must analyze patient-specific data and adapt care accordingly.

B. Using the nursing process. The nursing process (assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation, evaluation) is a structured approach that guides clinical decision-making and ensures patient-centered care.

C. Drawing on past clinical experiences to formulate standardized care plans. Past experiences can inform decision-making, but care plans must be individualized to the patient’s current condition rather than relying solely on standardization.

D. Depending on the charge nurse to determine priorities of care. While charge nurses provide leadership, each nurse is responsible for critical thinking and independent decision-making based on their assessment.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. Explaining to the patient that self-reporting of severe pain is not consistent with the minor procedure that was performed. Pain is subjective and should always be believed and assessed rather than dismissed based on procedure type. This does not demonstrate critical thinking.

B. Asking the patient what pain-relief methods, pharmacological and nonpharmacological, have worked best in the past. This approach assesses the patient’s individual experience and applies personalized care, which is a hallmark of critical thinking.

C. Administering pain-relief medication according to what was given last shift. Pain levels fluctuate, and medication effectiveness must be reassessed each time. Simply repeating the previous shift’s orders does not involve critical thinking.

D. Offering pain-relief medications based on the provider’s orders. While following orders is necessary, critical thinking involves assessing the patient’s pain level and determining the most appropriate intervention rather than blindly administering medication.

A. Pressure points B. Pulse points C. Breath sounds D. Bowel sounds

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Pressure points: Pressure points (e.g., sacrum, heels, elbows, shoulders, hips) are at the highest risk for breakdown, ulcers, and impaired circulation. This makes them the priority assessment for skin integrity.

B. Pulse points: While checking pulses is important for circulatory assessment, it is not directly related to skin integrity assessment.

C. Breath sounds: Breath sounds assess respiratory function and are not a direct indicator of skin integrity.

D. Bowel sounds: Bowel sounds assess gastrointestinal function and are not relevant in a skin integrity assessment.

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Which action by a nurse indicates application of the critical thinking model to make the best clinical decision?

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