Potpourri
Foundations of Clinical Judgment
Clinical Judgment Skills
Professional Qualities in Clinical Judgment
:Developing Clinical Judgment Skills
100

Representing something in a true and correct way, such as charting a patient’s exact blood pressure reading instead of “normal.”

What is accuracy?

100

These are hints or indications of potential disease processes, such as noticing cyanosis or shortness of breath in a patient.

what are cues?

100

This involves being aware and perceiving, such as recognizing a patient’s increased anxiety based on facial expressions.

what is noticing 

100

This quality means self-directed, disciplined, and accountable, such as acknowledging an error and reporting it.

What is being autonomous/responsible

100

This strategy uses case studies and unfolding scenarios to enhance problem-solving and clinical thinking.

what is active learning 

200

Defined as a cognitive process that uses intellectual standards based on evidence and science to approach a subject, content, or problem.

What is Critical Thinking?

200

This involves applying knowledge and experience to identify problems and guide actions, such as analyzing vital signs and deciding on an intervention.

what is critical thinking

200

This is analyzing what’s happening, such as linking abnormal lab values to possible kidney failure.

what is interpreting 

200

This involves acknowledging one’s biases and limits, such as seeking mentorship when unsure about a clinical judgment.

what is being self aware

200

This strategy involves concept mapping, group discussions, and sharing perspectives to improve reasoning.

What is collaborative learning

300

This inclination or favoritism can distort reasoning, such as assuming a patient exaggerates pain due to a history of frequent ER visits.

What is bias?

300

This is the observed outcome of critical thinking and decision-making; for example, a nurse prioritizing airway obstruction before addressing mild pain.

what is clinical judgment 

300

This is comparing observed outcomes against expected outcomes, such as reassessing blood pressure after antihypertensive medication.

what is evaluating outcomes

300

This means showing true self and consistent values, such as advocating for patient dignity.

what is being genuine/authentic

300

This skill allows nurses to identify strengths and weaknesses after experiences, such as reviewing a rapid response for improvement.

what is reflection

400

Critical thinking is linked to___________________?

What is Evidence Based Practice?

400

This is the ability to focus and filter clinical data, such as distinguishing between a harmless rash and signs of anaphylaxis.

what is clinical reasoning 

400

This involves taking action, such as elevating the head of the bed and applying oxygen for a patient in respiratory distress.

what is responding 

400

This quality means suspending judgment until data is complete, such as seeking lab confirmation before diagnosing.

what is being careful/prudent

500

_________________________________are flexible, nonjudgmental, inquisitive, honest, and interested in seeking the truth.

What are Critical Thinkers?

500

This is immediate apprehension of a clinical situation, such as “just knowing” a patient is deteriorating based on subtle changes.

what is intuition 

500

This process helps nurses gain knowledge from both positive and negative outcomes; for example, reflecting on a medication error to prevent future mistakes.

what is reflection 

500

This means promoting a healthy lifestyle, such as encouraging patients to manage stress through diet and exercise.

what is being health oriented 

600

Critical thinkers ask for help when they don’t know; seek the wisdom of mentors with knowledge, skill, and ability; and reevaluate their conclusions or actions in light of new information.

What is Intellectual Humility?

600

The failure to recognize cues is a major detriment to making sound _____________________ because significant factors are omitted from the subsequent processes (e.g., analyzing cues, formulating hypotheses).

What is clinical decisions?

600

This means adapting when circumstances change, such as altering a care plan after a patient develops new symptoms.

what is being flexible 

600

This involves waiting patiently and persevering for the best outcome, such as monitoring wound healing over weeks.

what is being patient/persistent

700

Critical thinkers try to make impartial judgments, realizing that personal biases, customs, and social pressures can influence their thinking.

What is Fair-mindedness?

700

Clinical reasoning and critical thinking are essential components of________________________.

What is clinical judgment?

700

This means looking for the truth and admitting flaws, such as reporting an error in documentation.

being honest

700

This involves anticipating consequences, planning ahead, and acting on opportunities, such as preparing supplies before a rapid response.

what is being proactive

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