Define "clinical judgment" in the context of nursing practice.

In the context of nursing practice, clinical judgment refers to the decision-making process that integrates a variety of factors, including patient assessments, clinical knowledge, evidence-based practices, and experiences. It involves critical thinking and reasoning to evaluate patient information, synthesize it with existing knowledge, and make informed decisions about care and interventions. This process ensures that nurses provide safe, effective, and individualized care to their patients.

By focusing on the synthesis of information rather than relying solely on intuition or making guesses, clinical judgment allows nurses to prioritize patient needs, anticipate potential complications, and adjust care plans accordingly. It is integral to quality nursing practice and underpins all aspects of patient care, from assessment to intervention and evaluation.

The other options presented misunderstand the complexity of clinical judgment. It is not merely a guess or based solely on intuition, nor is it a legal decision. Clinical judgment is a deliberate and systematic process essential for effective nursing practice.