Why are critical thinking skills in nursing important?
You’ll notice in the list above that critical thinking is embedded in a nurse’s everyday routine. You’ll learn all sorts of practical skills in nursing school that you’ll put to use at the clinic, but without the ability to think clearly and make rational decisions; those skills alone won’t get you very far.
You may be able to flawlessly dress a wound, take vitals like a pro or give an IV without flinching, but without the ability to make quick and efficient decisions under pressure, you’ll struggle as a nurse, according to LeeAnn Andronico, Rasmussen College nursing program coordinator. Some critical thinking skills come naturally and others can be acquired and developed during nursing school.