Clinical decision making
Clinical Decision Making
Clinical decision making (pronunciation: klin-i-kal dih-sizh-uhn mey-king) is a critical process in the healthcare sector that involves the use of evidence-based assessments to choose the best course of action for patient care.
Etymology
The term 'clinical' originates from the Greek word 'klinikos', which means 'bed'. In this context, it refers to the observation and treatment of actual patients rather than theoretical or laboratory studies. 'Decision making' is a compound word that refers to the process of making choices by identifying a decision, gathering information, and assessing alternative resolutions.
Definition
Clinical decision making is a complex process that requires the healthcare provider to select the best action based on patient information, clinical evidence, and professional judgment. It involves the integration of patient data, clinical skills, and knowledge to determine a patient's healthcare needs and the most effective treatment plan.
Process
The process of clinical decision making involves several steps:
- Assessment: This involves gathering information about the patient's health status through physical examination, medical history, and diagnostic tests.
- Diagnosis: Based on the assessment, the healthcare provider identifies the patient's health problem.
- Planning: The healthcare provider develops a plan of care that addresses the patient's health problem.
- Implementation: The healthcare provider carries out the plan of care.
- Evaluation: The healthcare provider evaluates the effectiveness of the care plan and makes necessary adjustments.
Related Terms
- Evidence-based practice: This is a problem-solving approach to clinical practice that integrates the best evidence from studies, patient care data, and clinician expertise.
- Clinical judgment: This is the interpretation or conclusion about a patient's needs, concerns, or health problems made by a healthcare provider.
- Patient-centered care: This is an approach to healthcare that respects and responds to individual patient preferences, needs, and values.
See Also
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