An examination of critical thinking in a self-care dialysis unit.

Nephrology nursing is more challenging than ever before. Faced with increasingly complex patients, fewer resources, and vast knowledge stores, nephrology nurses must be clear and focused in their thinking to make decisions using clinical judgment based in sound evidence to ensure best possible outcomes. To thrive in this environment, nurses must be able to think "critically," that is, think creatively and purposefully using reason and logic. It is critical thinking that helps define us as a profession, and enables us to understand and meet the needs of patients. In this article, an actual clinical scenario will be examined with an analysis of my initial thinking processes. An alternative approach to the scenario is suggested within the context of a critical thinking framework.