Decision making in practice: influences, management and reflection.

During placements, student nurses encounter a multitude of scenarios where decisions are made that influence patient outcomes. Many factors help support these decisions and this article will use a number of theories and models to analyse a clinical decision. It will critically discuss what influences health professionals' decision making and how they present treatment options to patients. The importance of reflection in decision making and its role in broadening students' knowledge on key nursing skills and best practice techniques in preparation for registered practice are also discussed.