Problem-solving and decision-making, essence of reflexive practice in nursing: A literature review

Abstract

Considering the importance of forming reflexive professionals, and also within the frame of a new epistemology of nursing practice, this review explores diverse theoretical sources which represent scientific evidence related to problem-solving and clinical decision-making skills, and also to the characteristics of newly nursing graduates who, during their social service (residency), experience a process of transition facing professional realities which require them to use those skills within complex and uncertain situations. The review included systematic searches in databases such as Medline, CINHAL, Scielo, Lilacs, Cochrane, Cuiden, and Redalyc, and yielded: 3 systematic reviews, 11 studies with quantitative approaches, 11 studies with qualitative ones, 2 with mixed ones, 14 review articles, and 5 books published in the last 15 years. The analyzed publications came from all continents, but there was a higher prevalence of those from America (50%) and Europe (22%). This review suggested that there are models which can support the development of these important skills and thus help consolidate a professional performance which is autonomous-reflexive rather than repetitive. Moreover, the schools of nursing can consider incorporating these models into their curricula and also generate school and clinical environments which further support the development of these skills.