Critical Thinking Disposition, Problem Solving Ability, and Clinical Competence in Nursing Students

Chaung, Seung Kyo

Abstract

PURPOSE
The purpose of this study was to investigate the critical thinking disposition, problem solving ability, and clinical competence of nursing students in a 4-year baccalaureate university program.
METHODS
In this study, a descriptive survey design was used with convenience sample of 228 nursing students at a University in Chungbuk Province. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent t-test, ANOVA, Pearson correlation coefficient, and multiple stepwise regression.
RESULTS
The mean scores for critical thinking disposition, problem solving ability, and clinical competence were at the intermediate level. Significant positive correlations among critical thinking disposition, problem solving ability, and clinical competence were found. The regression model explained 46.8% of clinical competence. Problem solving confidence was the most significant predictor of clinical competence, other variables were intellectual fairness, intellectual eagerness/curiosity, and prudence.
CONCLUSION
The study findings suggest that nursing students with higher levels of critical thinking disposition and problem solving ability will have a higher level of clinical competence. Furthermore, problem solving confidence might be the most important predictor in clinical competence. Therefore, it is necessary to introduce the new teaching strategies in nursing education, strategies that will improve critical thinking disposition, problem solving ability, and clinical competence.