The Effect of Problem-Solving-Based Learning on Critical Thinking Skills of Nursing Students

Background: Nurses need critical thinking (CT) skills when faced with unstable clinical conditions. CT is a style of thinking, which requires new and student-oriented education. Nursing educators should train active students interested in continuous learning with their educational methods. Objectives: Therefore, this study aimed to determine the effect of problem-solving-based education on the CT skills of nursing students of the Islamic Azad University of Golestan province in Iran. Methods: This experimental study used a pre-test and post-test with a control group. The study area was the department of undergraduate nursing students of the Islamic Azad University of Golestan province in the 7th and 8th semesters in the Islamic Azad University of Golestan province in 2022. The population included 50 nursing students, who were selected by convenient sampling. The data collection tool was the demographic profile form and the California Critical Skills Test (CCST). Results: In the control group, the results of the paired t-test in different dimensions, including truth-seeking (P = 0.91), criticism (P = 0.82), organization (P = 0.74), Curiosity (P = 0.52) and the overall size (P = 0.06) did not show significant differences before and after the intervention. However, there was a significant difference in the dimensions of analysis (P = 0.03) and self-confidence (P < 0.01). The ANCOVA test showed a significant difference (P < 0.01, Eta = 0.55) by removing the pre-test. Thus, 55% of post-test changes could be related to problem-solving skills. Conclusions: Based on the effectiveness of problem-solving learning in increasing the CT of nursing students, CT levels can be raised using this method. Therefore, it is recommended to hold the related courses in educational centers, especially universities and higher education centers.