To stimulate innovation, several techniques include:
● Simulations—uses actors representing standardized patients or high-tech mannequins ● Case studies—encourages participants to use critical thinking to analyze actual patient
situations ● Problem-based learning—incorporates additional information into the case study over
time ● Debate—helps participants examine an issue from more than one viewpoint (Lachman,
Glasgow, & Donnelly, 2009)
One university has even developed a post-master’s certificate program in innovation (Dreher, 2008). Using a case-study model, Drexel University’s College of Nursing offers an online program in innovation and entrepreneurship (see www.Drexel.edu) designed to foster cre- ative thinking to solve internal and external problems (Lachman, Glasgow, & Donnelly, 2009).
Critical thinking, creativity, and innovative thinking, along with the appropriate tools and techniques, will enable nurses and their managers to make decisions and solve problems in the least time and with the best outcomes.
What You Know Now • Critical thinking requires examining underlying assumptions about current evidence, interpreting infor-
mation, and evaluating the arguments presented to reach a new and exciting conclusion. • The creative process involves preparation, incubation, insight, and verification, which can be learned by
individuals and groups. • Problem-solving and decision-making processes use critical-thinking skills. • The decision-making process may employ several models: rational, descriptive rationality, satisficing, and
political. • Decision-making techniques vary according to the problem and the degree of risk and uncertainty in the
situation. • Methods of problem solving include trial and error, intuition, experimentation, past experience, tradition,
and recognizing that some problems are self-solving. • The problem-solving process involves defining the problem, gathering information, analyzing information,
developing solutions, making a decision, implementing the decision, and evaluating the solution. • Group problem solving can be positive, providing more information and knowledge than an individual. It
can also be negative if it generates disruptive conflict or groupthink. • Stumbling blocks to making decisions and solving problems include the leader’s personality, rigidity, or
preconceived ideas. • Innovation helps bridge the gap between the existing state and the desired state.
Tools for Making Decisions and Solving Problems 1. Identify problem areas. 2. Ask questions, interpret data, and consider alternatives to make decisions and solve problems. 3. Evaluate the level of certainty, uncertainty, and risk, and consider appropriate alternatives.