Using a conceptual approach with a concept map of psychosis as an exemplar to promote critical thinking.

Teaching students to think critically is an important component of nursing education. A literature review suggests that a conceptual approach and a concept map may help facilitate critical thinking in the nursing student. Currently, there are patients in various health care settings who manifest psychosis and need treatment for the disorder. This article proposes using both a concept map and a conceptual approach to teach the concept of psychosis instead of focusing on content. If students understand the general concept of psychosis, they can identify and implement nursing actions for patients with psychosis regardless of the etiology or health care setting.