30 2.3.1 Decision Making

In nursing practice, decisions are guided by evidence & information and involves ongoing process that integrates:

• Research
• Clinical expertise
• Client preferences
• Relevant resources

It is important to use a variety of evidence-informed sources which may include:

• Best practice guidelines, including those from professional associations
• Scholarly research
• Current nursing texts
• The client’s broader health care team
• Provincial Nursing practice standards and guidelines
• Information resources^[1][2]

Decisions & Prioritizing in LTC:

• Acute/Episodic illness
• New Diagnosis of Chronic Condition
• Exacerbation/worsening of previous chronic conditions
• Prognosis of illness and trajectory
• Medication(s) adjustments and treatments
• Primary Care and Preventative screening
• Treatments and Diagnostic investigations
• Life-Limiting Illness discussions^[3]

Consider the following to support & guide prioritization in your practice:

• ABC’s
• Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs
• Care Planning Activities
• M-A-A-U-A-R acronym^[4]