Critical Thinking

memphispanda, RN · Dec 10, 2002

I think for most people critical thinking is something you either have or you don't have. However, they teach critical thinking at my school. Or they think they do anyway. There are books out there about critical thinking and reading one of those may help you understand what critical thinking is. Beyond that...I really think the only way to develop critical thinking skills is to practice using them.

chartleypj · Dec 10, 2002

I believe both aquired and a learned trait. I aquired my critical thinking skills in healthcare as a result of years of practicing nursing.

Paula

shrek · Dec 10, 2002

In my opinion...everyone has the potential for critical thinking,but enhances it by consistently stepping out of the box like we do each day. I have always been able to multi-task... but critical thinking is polished by experience & qd use.

Sleepyeyes · Dec 10, 2002

You can develop critical thinking skills. But it takes awhile. Good luck.

Tweety, BSN, RN · Dec 10, 2002

I generally believe critical skills can be developed.

As a preceptor and charge nurse, I wish it was something I could give away, and it does seem that some have it and some don't. But I have to allow everyone their time, and that's what I'm there for.

I still develop my critical thinking day by day. Learning from each new experience.

Never let your guard down.

BadBird, BSN, RN · Dec 10, 2002

I believe it is a combination of both learned and natural ability. If one can keep a open mind and has a desire for knowledge then applying critical thinking skills is both challenging and rewarding.

kristi915 · Dec 10, 2002

I think a little of both. You can be naturally good at it, but I also think a person can, over time develop critical thinking skills. I'm sure it will take some time. But, with the differences in whatever situations you are put in, you will learn different ways to analyze.

l.rae · Dec 10, 2002

when you start taking the nursing exams and have to choose between 2 correct answers which is MOST correct....then you will fish or cut bait....if you understand what l just said...you're probably already one step ahead...LOL.....LR

maureeno · Dec 10, 2002

critical thinking means recognizing assumptions, separating out fact from opinion; being able to support ideas with evidence. It means knowing how you come to a conclusion.

l.rae · Dec 10, 2002

you gotta know when to hold em, know when to fold em, know when to walk away, know when to run........sorry, just kidding.

SmilingBluEyes · Dec 11, 2002

you develop critical thinking skills--- You are NOT BORN WITH THEM....YOU ARE BORN WITH POTENTIAL (or in another word: INTELLIGENCE...that's all it is, potential). What you DO with "potential"...is up to you.......the more you use your potential, the more developed it becomes. Critical thinking is developed over time and with practice. Use it or lose it.