Beyond the Individual: A Multidisciplinary Model for Critical Thinking in the Intensive Care Unit

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Cognitive Science
• Healthcare Quality

Background:

• Fostering critical thinking in healthcare professionals is crucial for quality patient care.
• Current educational approaches often focus on individual critical thinking, with less emphasis on team dynamics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore critical thinking at the team level within healthcare education.
• To assist educators in developing shared mental models focused on cognition.
• To identify gaps and growth opportunities in trainee critical thinking.

Main Methods:

• Distinguishing between microcognition, macrocognition, and team cognition.
• Utilizing a common case example to illustrate concepts.
• Proposing a model framework for clinician educators.

Main Results:

• Defines microcognition (individual, controlled), macrocognition (individual, real-world), and team cognition (group interaction).
• Provides a practical case example for applying these concepts.
• Outlines a framework for educators to assess and develop team cognition.

Conclusions:

• Understanding team cognition is essential for enhancing healthcare provider critical thinking.
• The proposed framework can guide educators in developing trainees' cognitive abilities in complex healthcare settings.
• This work supports the development of more effective, team-oriented healthcare professionals.