Critical Thinking Flashcards
7 cards from real ATI practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Critical Thinking flashcards as text
A nurse notices a patient's blood pressure dropped from 120/80 to 90/60 after a new medication. What critical thinking step should occur FIRST?
Answer: Recognize and analyze the change as a potential cue
Recognizing and analyzing a significant cue is the first step before acting.
Which question best reflects evaluating the reliability of a source of clinical information?
Answer: Is the information current and evidence-based?
Reliable clinical information must be current and supported by evidence.
A patient report contains both objective and subjective data. Which is an example of objective data?
Answer: Temperature of 101.4°F
Objective data is measurable, like a recorded temperature.
When two interventions seem equally valid, critical thinking requires the nurse to:
Answer: Weigh risks and benefits for the specific patient
Comparing risks and benefits for the individual guides sound decisions.
Inductive reasoning in clinical practice involves:
Answer: Forming a general conclusion from specific observations
Inductive reasoning builds general conclusions from specific cues.
A nurse questions whether an assumption about a patient's pain is accurate. This demonstrates:
Answer: Reflective skepticism
Questioning assumptions reflects reflective skepticism, a core thinking skill.
Which action best shows prioritization based on critical analysis?
Answer: Addressing airway compromise before a routine dressing change
Life-threatening issues like airway take priority over routine care.