Efficient patient prioritization in the emergency department relies heavily on triage competency. Recent research highlights that critical thinking, rather than just intuition, is the primary engine behind accurate patient assessment. Researchers explored how these cognitive processes interact through a structural equation modeling approach, revealing key pathways for clinical improvement.

Critical Thinking and Triage Competency

A study involving 145 emergency nurses demonstrates that critical thinking disposition exerts a powerful indirect effect on overall triage competency. Specifically, researchers identified three main mediators: clinical judgment, timely decision-making, and expert assessment. Notably, clinical judgment emerged as the most significant pathway, accounting for 94% of the total effect observed. While intuitive expertise showed a positive trend, its relationship with triage performance remained statistically nonsignificant in this model.

Implications for Emergency Nursing Education

These findings suggest that traditional reliance on \"gut feeling\" or intuition may be less effective than systematic cognitive training. Consequently, educational programs should prioritize the development of critical thinking skills to enhance triage competency. Focused training in clinical judgment can empower nurses to make more accurate, timely decisions under pressure. Furthermore, strengthening these cognitive pathways helps ensure that medical teams allocate resources to the most critical patients first, optimizing overall hospital workflow.

Key Research Insights

The structural model indicates that nurses with high critical thinking scores excel in expert assessment. Moreover, timely decision-making serves as a vital bridge between theoretical knowledge and practical application in high-stress environments. Therefore, healthcare administrators should consider integrating case-based learning and simulation to bolster these specific skills among emergency nursing staff. Continuous evaluation of these competencies remains essential for maintaining safety standards in emergency care.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most critical component of triage competency?

Clinical judgment is the primary factor, acting as the strongest mediator between a nurse's critical thinking skills and their ability to perform accurate triage.

Does intuition play a significant role in triage?

While intuitive expertise grows with experience, research indicates its impact on triage competency is nonsignificant compared to the measurable influence of structured critical thinking and clinical judgment.

How can hospitals improve triage outcomes?

Hospitals should invest in educational interventions that prioritize critical thinking development and clinical judgment training rather than relying solely on clinical experience.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice or replace professional clinical judgment. Refer to the latest local and national guidelines for clinical practice.

References

1. Eom J et al. Mediating Pathways of Critical Thinking and Intuition on Triage Competency in Emergency Nurses: A Structural Equation Modeling Approach. J Nurs Care Qual. 2026 Apr 21. doi: 10.1097/NCQ.0000000000000971. PMID: 42012865.


2. Song JW, Park HR. Effects of Critical Thinking Disposition, Clinical Judgement, and Nurse–Physician Collaboration on Triage Competency Among Triage Nurses. Healthcare (Basel). 2025 Feb 13;13(4):405. doi: 10.3390/healthcare13040405. PMID: 39997280.


3. Park JH, Bae SH. Emergency Nurses' Critical Thinking Disposition, Problem Solving Ability, and Triage Competency. J Muscle Jt Health. 2022 Aug 31;29(2):124-133. doi: 10.5953/JMJH.2022.29.2.124.