A decision tree in nursing is a model of possible outcomes after a series of relating choices. The purpose is to allow an organization or individuals to weight their possible actions against each other based on probabilities, benefits, and cost. A decision tree is useful in mapping out an algorithm that helps in predicting the best choice or driving and informal discussion.
The Format of a Decision Tree Model in Nursing
A decision tree typically begins with one node that branch into the possible outcomes. Every outcome leads to an additional node that branch off into different possibilities. The steps give a treelike shape hence the name decision tree. Decision nodes in a tree model are different, and you can place them into these categories
Chance nodes: A node showing the probability of particular results. A circle represents chance nodes.
Decision nodes: Decision nodes show the decision that someone or group should make. A square represents the decision node.
End nodes: An end node shows the last outcome me of decision path .
Decision Tree Model in Nursing
1. Define the task/activity
- Clarify these issues when defining the task or activity, the problem or need and if it a task that requires delegation.
- The people who are part of the decision, the decision to make, place to make it (setting or organization) and where it takes place.
- Why raise the question now Has there been a previous discussion on the issue
2. Does nurse practice act in the organization permit the activity?
No- Means you should and defer the task to a professional with appropriate qualifications for the activity or to the seniors for a decision. Yes-consider whether it requires special education and refers to question 5 below Unsure- Determine if the activity is within a law, policy or rule and proceeds to the following question.
3. Is there a prohibition of the task/activity by policy or law or rule?
No-stop and refer it to a qualified professional Yes-Defer the task to a professional or seniors for a decision since you do not have authorization
4. Define if there is prohibition of an action has the support of states by a professional body, position statements from such organization relating to the practice question, essential education preparation, and research data in nursing as well as other health relating literature.
No- Stop and leave the task to a professional with qualifications for the job or inform the supervisors for a decision. Yes- refer to the next point on special education needs.
5. Determine the presence of special education necessary for the activity
No-Stop and defer the task to a professional who has the qualifications to engage in the function or the superiors for a decision Yes- Process to the next point
6. Is the nursing knowledge appropriate for the task?
No-Stop, defer this activity to a qualified nurse or other medical professional or ask the senior position holders to make a decision. Yes-Check the next question about document competency
7. Is there any documented evidence of experience, initial and continued competence?
No-Stop and find an experienced professional for the work or ask for a decision from the supervising officials. Yes- Consider the nest point about reasoning and prudence.
8. Think whether a reasonable and cautious nurse will perform the act.
No- Ask an expert on the issue to act or refer or your senior to make a decision. Yes- Go to the next point about patient safety
9. Is there assurance of patient safety?
No –Stop and refer the issue to a professional with skills in the activity or to the seniors’ team for a decision Yes- Go to the next point
10. Is the nurse ready to accept the consequences of an action?
No- Stop the action and leave the handling of the issue to a specialist or inform the person-in-charge for them to make an appropriate decision Yes- A nurse can perform this task according to prevailing and acceptable standards of nursing care.