Critical Thinking, Problem Solving and Decision Making

1634 Words7 Pages
This paper will define and discuss critical thinking, problem solving, and decision-making. First, the definitions of critical thinking, problem solving and decision-making will be given. Next, the differences between critical thinking, problem solving and decision-making will be discussed. Later in this paper, the seven role-identity dyads of nursing will be defined and applied to the role of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit nurse. The role stressors and the strategies that can be used to reduce stress will be discussed.
Critical Thinking An early definition of critical thinking is outlined as the combination of “abilities needed to define a problem, recognize stated and unstated assumptions, formulate and select hypotheses, draw conclusions, and judge the validity of inferences” (Watson & Glaser, 1964). Critical thinking as defined in Taber’s Cyclopedic Medical Dictionary is “a purposeful approach to problem solving that relies on flexibility, creativity, perspective, and communication to achieve desired outcomes. Critical thinking focuses on goals rather than processes or tasks” ("Thinking," 2009).
Problem Solving In Britannica’s Concise Encyclopedia, problem solving is defined as a “process involved in finding a solution to a problem” ("Problem solving," 2009). In other words, problem solving is going through a series of inquiries or steps to figure out what the problem exactly is and then applying possible solutions (or answers) to the problem. It is a way of coming up with a solution to the problem.
Decision-making
Decision-making can be defined as “choosing between two or more courses of action” ("Decision-making," 2010). It is choosing one path over the other path. Weighing the options of one course over the other course brings decision-making forth.
Critical thinking, problem solving & decision-making differentiated One of the main

More about Critical Thinking, Problem Solving and Decision Making

Open Document