Module 4: Critical thinking

Question 1

What is critical thinking?

Answer 1

Complex phenomenon involving the use of logic and reasoning to make accurate clinical judgements and decisions

Question 2

In critical thinking, a nurse must (READ)

Answer 2

Recognize that an issue exists
analyze all the data involved
evaluates the information
draws conclusions

Question 3

What are 4 attitudes and skills to build critical thinking into nursing practice

Answer 3

• Ability to ask questions
• be well informed
• Be honest in facing personal biases
• Be willing to reconsider and think clearly about issues

Question 4

What is the purpose of reflective journal writing?

Answer 4

To help the nurse identify how previously learned knowledge can be applied in the future

Question 5

Use of the pain scale is an example of adherence to which intellectual standard?
Depth, specifics, relevance, or consistency

Answer 5

Consistency

Question 6

A nurse uses The institutions procedure manual to confirm how to insert a Foley catheter. Which level of critical thinking is the nurse using?

Answer 6

Basic critical thinking

Question 7

What is a concept map?

Answer 7

A visual representation of patient problems and interventions that shows their relationships to each other and allows easy synthesis of data about the patient

Question 8

What are the six steps for critical thinking skills

Answer 8

Interpretation
Analysis
Inference
Evaluation 
Explanation 
Self-regulation

Question 9

What are two actions for developing critical thinking

Answer 9

Reflective writing and concept maps

Question 10

Why is reflective writing or journalling important? (3)

Answer 10

Purposely recall a situation to determine purpose and meaning
Allows examination of assumptions
Allow you to gain experience and think about future strategies