Which of these patient scenarios is most indicative of critical ...

[cmoore54]

Which of these patient scenarios is most indicative of critical thinking?
 
  a. Administering pain relief medication according to what was given last shift
  b. Asking a patient what pain relief methods, pharmacological and nonpharmacological, have worked in the past
  c. Offering pain relief medication based on physician orders
  d. Explaining to the patient that his reports of severe pain are not consistent with the minor procedure that was performed

Question 2

Critical thinking characteristics include
 
  a. Considering what is important in a given situation.
  b. Accepting one, established way to provide patient care.
  c. Making decisions based on intuition.
  d. Being able to read and follow physician's orders.

[gabrielle_lawrence]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
Asking the patient what pain relief methods have worked in the past is an example of exploring many options for pain relief. Administering medication based on a previous assessment is not practicing according to standards of care. The nurse is to conduct an assessment each shift on his/her patient and intervene accordingly. Nonpharmacological pain relief methods are available, as are medications for pain. Pain is subjective. The nurse should offer pain relief methods based on the patient's reports without being judgmental.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
Critical thinking involves being able to decipher what is relevant and important in a given situation and to make a clinical decision based on that importance. Patient care can be provided in many ways. Clinical decisions should be based on evidence and research. Following physician's orders is not considered a critical thinking skill.

[cmoore54]

TY

[gabrielle_lawrence]

You're welcome