Problem Solving

Problem Solving

Critical Thinking enables a person to solve problems and make decisions. Therefore - Problem solving and decision making are

practical application of critical thinking skills

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.

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.

Problem Solving

Involves identifying the problem and making choices

Essential to the delivery of competent nursing care.

Problem SolvingNursing 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

Problem-SolvingNursing 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

Problem SolvingNursing Process Style

Decision Making is a step in the problem-solving process and is the process of choosing among alternatives

Problem SolvingNursing Process Style

Steps in the Problem-Solving Process

Steps in the Problem-Solving Process

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

organized

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

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!

Steps in the Problem-Solving Process

Outcome Identification – clear, concise idea of the desired

destination Measurable Positive and negative outcomes

must be determined

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

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

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

Problem Solving Strategies

Do it yourself Influence others Assign someone Do nothing

Problem Solving Strategies

Do it yourself The problem solver should evaluate his/her

capabilities and expertise and determine whether this is the preferred option

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.

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.”

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

Problem Solving Strategies

Combine knowledge Consultation, collaboration with an expert Talking through the situation

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