Leadership Roles and Management Functions in Nursing Ch. 1-2

Decision Making - A complex, cognitive process often defined as choosing a particular course of action. This is the last step in problem solving process. Problem Solving - Part of decision making and is a systematic process that focuses on analyzing a difficult situation. This always includes a decision-making step Critical Thinking (reflective thinking) - More complex than problem solving and decision making as it involves higher order reasoning and evaluation. Also has both cognitive and affective components. critical thinker characteristics - 1. Open to new ideas 2. Intuitive 3.Risk taker 4. Outcome directed 5. Communicaitive 6. Flexible clinical reasoning - Noticing crucial changes in patient status, analyzing these changes to decide on a course of action, and evaluation responses to modify care. How to Improve Clinical reasoning - Through Simulations and Case Studies 1. Case studies are like stories that impart learning. They are more interactive for students. 2. Simulations give problem solving opportunities with little to no risk to a patient or an organization . Also good for students to develop priority setting, timeliness of action, and patient outcomes