Option generation and decision making in critical-care nursing
Document Type
Conference Proceeding
Publication Date
12-1-2010
Abstract
The recognition-primed decision (RPD) model and Take the First (TTF) heuristic assert that successful and experienced decision makers typically generate relatively few options, and generate a satisficing, or the best, option first. Moreover, the TTF heuristic suggests that as more options are generated the likelihood that the best option will be selected is reduced. An alternative proposal suggests that the ability to anticipate the outcome of a situation is actually positively related to the number of options generated. To test these opposing claims we compared high and low performing critical-care nurses on three simulated critical care scenarios and measured their option generation behaviors and the courses of action pursued. Consistent with RPD and TTF, the data suggest that high performers generate fewer options than low performers during situational assessment. However, counter to RPD and TTF, the current data suggest that the selection of options generated later in the process may actually facilitate better outcomes. Implications for the design of instruction and training materials are discussed. Copyright 2010 by Human Factors and Ergonomics Society, Inc. All rights reserved.
Publication Title
Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society
Recommended Citation
Ward, P.,
Torof, J.,
Whyte IV, J.,
Eccles, D.,
&
Harris, K.
(2010).
Option generation and decision making in critical-care nursing.
Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society,
1, 354-358.
http://doi.org/10.1518/107118110X12829369201719
Retrieved from: https://digitalcommons.mtu.edu/michigantech-p/13486