Impact of problem-based learning on community nurses' critical-thinking skills

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Healthcare Professional Development

Background:

• Problem-based learning (PBL) is a teaching strategy that integrates theoretical knowledge with clinical practice.
• It has the potential to foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills in nurses, particularly in community settings.
• PBL encourages nurses to develop initiative in managing complex patient situations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the impact of problem-based learning on the critical thinking abilities of community nurses.
• To synthesize findings from studies examining PBL's effect on nursing critical thinking.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review utilizing an integrative synthesis approach.
• Combined narrative and thematic analysis of heterogeneous quantitative studies.
• Literature search across three databases (Academic Search Complete, CINAHL Complete, Medline) using a Population, Exposure, Outcome framework.

Main Results:

• Exposure to PBL was associated with improvements in knowledge, attitude, perception, self-efficacy, problem-solving, clinical reasoning, and evaluation skills.
• Enhanced performance, competency, motivation, and self-directed learning were reported.
• Some studies indicated potential benefits for safe and effective nursing care.

Conclusions:

• Problem-based learning strategies may positively influence nurses' critical thinking and clinical decision-making.
• Further rigorous reviews incorporating mixed-method studies in practice and academic settings are necessary.
• The impact on qualified community and district nurses requires further investigation.