1. Problem Solving

2.  Critical Thinking enables a person to solve problems and make decisions. Therefore - Problem solving and decision making are practical application of critical thinking skills

3. Problem Solving  Problem Solving is a systematic process leading to the achievement of outcomes  The ability to solve problems effectively contributes to the delivery of safe, competent nursing care.

4. Problem  Definition: Problem [Webster} “ a question raised for inquiry, consideration, discussion, decision, or solution” Something “difficult to solve or decide” Problems can be related to: patients, coworkers, mechanical breakdown, or personal issues.

5. Problem Solving Involves identifying the problem and making choices Essential to the delivery of competent nursing care.

6. Problem Solving Nursing Process Style  Problem solving is a generic process that can be applied to any problem.  Nursing Process differs from generic problem solving in that it is patient centered

7. Problem-Solving Nursing Process Style  The problem solving process is the foundation of the nursing process  For nursing practice, problem solving is presented in a nursing process format

8. Problem Solving Nursing Process Style  Decision Making is a step in the problem-solving process and is the process of choosing among alternatives

9. Problem Solving Nursing Process Style Steps in the Problem-Solving Process

10. Assessment - the existence of a problem must be recognized  Data should be collected, compiled, and organized

11. Steps in the Problem-Solving Process Analysis – problem should be identified and defined clearly  Ask questions: Who? What is the problem? Why do you think that there is a problem?  Determine priority of the problem

12. Steps in the Problem-Solving Process Develop a list of possible strategies  Focus on a range of solutions before selecting the best one  Be creative!

13. Steps in the Problem-Solving Process Outcome Identification –  clear, concise idea of the desired destination  Measurable  Positive and negative outcomes must be determined

14. Steps in the Problem-Solving Process Plan – select the alternative that has the best chance of success and the least undesirable outcome.  Know your resources: patient’s chart, nsg. Texts, medication books, P&P books, individuals with expertise.  Identify actions/determine priority  Make decision

15. Steps in the Problem-Solving Process Implementation – of the chosen solution  If actions have been delegated to personnel, clear and thorough direction must be given.  In addition to delegation, this may require performing nursing actions to achieve the est. goals

16. Steps in the Problem-Solving Process Evaluation  Changes may occur in the problem that necessitate immediate revisions  Compare the results obtained with the desired outcome

17. Problem Solving Strategies  Do it yourself  Influence others  Assign someone  Do nothing

18. Problem Solving Strategies  Do it yourself The problem solver should evaluate his/her capabilities and expertise and determine whether this is the preferred option

19. Problem Solving Strategies  Influence Others Allow the person owning the problem to solve it Eg. Conflict between 2 employees: The nurse manager may bring the parties together to discuss their issues  Interpersonal skills may be used to assist in conflict resolution, but the employees would be allowed to work out their own solution.

20. Problem Solving Strategies  Assign someone – Delegation is the “transferring to a competent individual the authority to perform a selected nursing task in a selected situation.”

21. Problem Solving Strategies  Do Nothing Often a problem will subside on its own The problem solver should recognize when a problem has the potential to resolve by itself and should consider making a conscious effort not to intervene

22. Problem Solving Strategies  Combine knowledge Consultation, collaboration with an expert Talking through the situation

23. Pitfalls in Problem-Solving Failure to clearly identify the real problem Failure to eliminate preconceived ideas in the identification of solutions Failure to communicate Failure to follow up Failure to use appropriate resources