Theoretical model of critical thinking in diagnostic process in nursing

Abstract

The diagnostic process in nursing consists of collecting information, interpreting such information, grouping data, surveying diagnostic hypotheses and identifying the nursing diagnosis. Decision making regarding a nursing diagnosis involves cognitive skills and interpersonal and professional attitudes. Critical thinking is presented as an essential skill in the nursing diagnostic process. It is defined as a deliberate judgment that results in the interpretation, analysis, evaluation, inference and the explanation of evidence. It is argued that we must persist in improving critical thinking in order to ensure a greater degree of accuracy with regard to nursing diagnoses. Is necessary to encourage further development of critical thinking within nursing, for nurses are able to diagnose, evaluate and intervene in clinical situations by making appropriate decisions. Therefore, we have developed this study in order to understand the critical thinking skills related to the diagnostic process in nursing.