Abstract
Problem
Currently there is no discipline-specific definition of critical thinking in midwifery
practice.
Background
Critical thinking in midwifery practice is the cornerstone for safe, evidence based,
and woman centred clinical decision-making. Available definitions of critical thinking
in other disciplines do not align with midwifery practice which is distinctive, multidimensional
and complex.
Aim
To develop an international consensus definition of critical thinking in midwifery
practice.
Methods
A two round Delphi study was used. Thirty-two international midwifery experts contributed
to the first round which was qualitative in nature. Twenty one of these experts then
ranked the relevance and clarity of concepts from round one.
Findings
A consensus definition of critical thinking in midwifery practice was achieved. The
expert panel identified and defined 14 ‘Habits of Mind’ and 12 Skills that are the
core of critical thinking in midwifery practice. Skills included; analysis, constructive
application and contextualisation of best available evidence, problem solving, discriminating,
predicting, evaluation of care, collect and interpret clinical cues, collaboration/
negotiation, reflexivity, facilitates shared decision-making, communication, and transforming
knowledge. Habits of Mind included; intellectual curiosity, reflective, holistic view,
intellectual integrity, flexibility, questioning/challenging, participatory, open
mindedness, listening with understanding and empathy, cultural humility, woman centred,
being brave, confidence, and creativity.
Discussion/conclusion
This study is an international first and delineates characteristics of critical thinking
in midwifery. Development of a consensus definition provides a common and shared understanding
of the skills and attributes required for critical thinking in midwifery practice
and can also be applied in education and research.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: February 15, 2022
Accepted:
February 10,
2022
Received in revised form:
January 16,
2022
Received:
October 29,
2021
Identification
Copyright
Crown Copyright © 2022 Published by Elsevier Ltd on behalf of Australian College of Midwives. All rights reserved.
