Clinical Scenario Problem Solving Skills

for the Respiratory Therapy Student

Donna Oliver-Freeman MS RRTAssociate Professor

Northern Virginia Community College

ScenarioYou are working the dayshift in a 300-bed suburban hospital.

AssignmentYou are assigned to the

Medical Intensive Care Unit and it is BUSY.

AdmissionEarly in your shift you get an unstable admission

from the Emergency Room.

ReportYou got very little information

in report because she just rolled in the door.

The Patient

The only information you have is that the patient is an unstable 29-year-old well nourished female found unconscious on the subway. She is going for a CT Scan on Oxygen and she will need a tank for transport and during the procedure.

TransportThe patient is very unstable and you have been

asked to assist with the transport.

Information?What items of information will you need

to ensure a successful transport?

DataGather clinical information

(assess patient and review patient chart)

AnalysisInterpret and analyze the available clinical data

AnticipateAnticipate problems with the patient and equipment

PlanDevelop a plan

Decision MakingMake decision about what you will need

EquipmentGather the appropriate equipment

PrioritizePrioritize

Communicate Communicate and collaborate with nurses and

other RT’s

Transport

Summary of SkillsThese are the necessary skills for a strong clinician:

1. Prioritize and plan for the expected and the unexpected2. Anticipate problems and their solutions3. Troubleshoot technical problems as they occur4. Communicate effectively according to the therapists’ styles and the demands of the situation5. Negotiate responsibilities with your co–workers and medical orders with the medical staff6. Make individual, shared, and consultative decisions7. Reflect on the patients and decisions you have made8. Re-evaluate as needed

Resources

Shelledy, D.C. (2012). Methods of Incorporating Critical Thinking into the Curriculum. Retrieved from www.coarc.com/uploaded/.../2012%20AARC%20IC%20Shelledy.pd... Mishoe, S.C. (2003). Critical Thinking in Respiratory Care Practice: A Qualitative Research Study. Respir Care 2003;48(5):500 –516. Retrieved from http://services.aarc.org/source/DownloadDocument/Downloaddocs/05.03.0500.pdf  French, W. A. (2000) Case Profiles in Respiratory Care. Canada: Delmar Thomas Learning. Mishoe, S.C. & Welch M. A. (2002). Critical Thinking in Respiratory Care. McGraw- Hill.

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