Critical Thinking, Clinical Reasoning, and Communication in Nursing

Vocabulary flashcards covering key definitions and concepts for critical thinking, clinical reasoning, problem-solving, and professional communication in nursing practice.

Critical thinking

Process of intentional higher-level thinking to define a client's problem, examine evidence-based practice in care, and make choices in delivery of care.

Clinical reasoning

Cognitive process using thinking strategies to gather and analyze client information, decide on possible nursing action, for improved psychological and psychosocial outcomes.

Critical analysis

Application of a set of questions to a particular situation/idea to determine potential information and ideas as well as discard unimportant information.

Socratic questioning

Technique used to look for inconsistencies, examine multiple points of view, and differentiate between beliefs and knowledge.

Inductive reasoning

Reasoning from specific to broad, where generalizations are formed from a set of facts or observations.

Deductive reasoning

Reasoning from a broad general premise to a specific conclusion, which is not always valid.

Creativity in Nursing

Thinking resulting in the development of new ideas or products, used when traditional methods are not effective.

The Nursing Process (ADPIE)

Systematic, rational method of planning and providing individualized nursing care that begins with assessment of patients and use of clinical reasoning to identify patient problems.

Problem solving

Process of identifying problems, obtaining information, generating solutions, and evaluating outcomes.

Research process

Formalized, logical, systematic approach to problem solving based on evidence-based practice.

Reflection

Identification of factors that improve patient care, which evaluates effectiveness, promotes professional growth, and allows learning from experiences.

Concept mapping

Visual learning and care planning technique that shows relationships among concepts, such as problems, symptoms, and signs.

Communication

Dynamic process used to gather assessment data, teach and persuade, and express care and comfort.

Helpful communication

Type of communication that promotes information and feelings sharing.

Unhelpful communication

Type of communication that hinders or blocks the sharing of feelings or information.

Intrapersonal communication

Communication with yourself.

Interpersonal communication

Communication with 2 or more people.

Sender

The person communicating the message.

Encoding

Selection of signs/symbols to translate the message, which can include body language.

Decoder/Decoding

How the receiver interprets the message using all senses to perceive and receive verbal and non-verbal communication.

Feedback

The receiver's response, which can be verbal or non-verbal.

Public distance

Spatial distance defined as 12+ ft.

Social distance

Spatial distance defined as 4-12ft.

Personal distance

Spatial distance defined as 1 1/2 - 4 ft.

Intimate distance

Spatial distance defined as 0- 1 1/2 ft, during which tasks should be completed as quickly as possible.

Therapeutic communication

Goal-directed communication promoting an understanding and a constructive nurse-patient relationship.

Attentive listening

Active listening that involves observing verbal and nonverbal cues, avoiding interruptions, and demonstrating caring and respect.

Helping relationships

Goal-directed, patient-centered relationships that build trust and empathy and set professional boundaries.

Preinteraction phase

Phase of the helping relationship that occurs before meeting the patient.

Orientation phase

Phase of the helping relationship involving introductions and clarifying roles.

Working phase

Phase of the helping relationship involving problem-solving and educating.

Resolution phase

Phase of the helping relationship when the relationship is ending and goals are met.

Assertive communication

Communication style that is confident, direct, and respectful, advocating for patients, promoting professional collaboration, and improving safety.