title: [Concept analysis and critical thinking: a complementary relationship in nursing].
abstract: The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the relationship between the concept analysis process and critical thinking skills in nursing. Utilizing a discursive essay approach, it is argued that the concept analysis technique enhances critical thinking. The steps of the concept analysis are analyzed as to the inherent cognitive operations that represent critical reasoning processes. Reflecting on an experience with undergraduate nursing students, the technique of concept analysis is evaluated as a didactic activity that enhances critical thinking. It is concluded that both processes complement each other in the rethinking of nursing and in confronting challenging practice situations.
authors.affiliation: Serviços de Saúde-ENFESES, Departamento de Enfermagem, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte. enders@matrix.com.br
authors.forename: Bertha Cruz
authors.initials: BC
authors.lastname: Enders
authors.forename: Rosineide Santana
authors.initials: RS
authors.lastname: de Brito
authors.forename: Akemi Iwata
authors.initials: AI
authors.lastname: Monteiro
mesh_terms: D004506:Education, Nursing