Medical decision making
Medical Decision Making
Medical decision making (pronunciation: med-i-kal de-ci-sion mak-ing) is a critical aspect of the healthcare process that involves the application of systematic approaches to clinical problem solving. It is a complex process that requires the integration of patient information, clinical expertise, and research evidence.
Etymology
The term "medical decision making" is derived from the Latin words medicus (meaning "physician") and decisio (meaning "decision"), and the Old English word macing (meaning "making").
Process
Medical decision making involves several steps, including patient assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, and outcome evaluation. It requires the use of clinical judgment, evidence-based medicine, and patient preferences to make informed decisions about patient care.
Related Terms
- Clinical Judgment: The application of a clinician's knowledge and experience in making decisions about patient care.
- Evidence-Based Medicine: The integration of best research evidence with clinical expertise and patient values in making decisions about patient care.
- Patient Assessment: The process of gathering information about a patient to identify their health needs and determine the appropriate course of treatment.
- Diagnosis: The identification of a disease or condition based on a patient's symptoms and diagnostic tests.
- Treatment Planning: The process of determining the best course of action to address a patient's health needs.
- Outcome Evaluation: The process of assessing the results of medical interventions to determine their effectiveness.
See Also
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