Critical Thinking in Nursing

All nursing education programs were mandated by the National League of Nursing to include critical thinking as a major component in curriculums. Although the term is widely used, there is no clear definition of the usages of the concept in nursing. The aim of this analysis was to explore the concept of critical thinking, as it relates to nursing using the Walker and Avant method. The analysis revealed: a) different meanings and uses of the concept, including; b) attributes (assessment, evaluation, and open-mind); c) antecedents (problem, questioning attitude, and need for answers); d) consequences (safer practice and confidence in nurse's decision making); and e) empirical referents. A systematic approach is needed to guide nurses and nursing students in the path of cultivating critical thinking. It is essential that nursing students learn about critical thinking from the beginning of their nursing education. As a result, nursing decision will be more accurate and the clients' outcomes will be improved.