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Nursing Process vs. CJMM | Why Clinical Judgment Goes Beyond ADPIE

Aug 4, 2025

Overview

This lecture explains the difference between the traditional nursing process (ADPIE) and the Clinical Judgment Measurement Model (CJMM), emphasizing how each shapes clinical thinking and decision-making in nursing practice.

The Nursing Process (ADPIE)

  • ADPIE stands for Assess, Diagnose, Plan, Implement, and Evaluate.
  • It is a linear, sequential process used for care planning and documentation.
  • Each step is completed before moving to the next.
  • Useful for organizing patient care but less adaptable in urgent situations.

The Clinical Judgment Measurement Model (CJMM)

  • CJMM consists of six layers: Recognize cues, Analyze cues, Prioritize hypothesis, Generate solutions, Take action, Evaluate outcomes.
  • CJMM reflects real-time, layered thinking rather than stepwise action.
  • Steps are ongoing and often happen simultaneously, allowing for constant reassessment.
  • Supports clinical reasoning and rapid decision-making in evolving clinical scenarios.

Practical Example: Postoperative Patient

  • If a postoperative patient becomes short of breath, nurses use CJMM by:
    • Recognizing cues: noticing shortness of breath, anxiety, high respiratory rate.
    • Analyzing cues: considering possible causes like pain or pulmonary embolism.
    • Prioritizing hypothesis: focusing on the most life-threatening possibility.
    • Generating solutions: raising the bed, applying oxygen, calling the provider.
    • Taking action and evaluating if interventions are effective.

Comparing ADPIE and CJMM

  • ADPIE is best for structured care planning and documentation.
  • CJMM is better for fast, in-the-moment clinical judgment and adjustment.
  • CJMM enhances, rather than replaces, the traditional nursing process.

Key Terms & Definitions

  • ADPIE — A sequential nursing process: Assess, Diagnose, Plan, Implement, Evaluate.
  • CJMM (Clinical Judgment Measurement Model) — A layered model guiding real-time clinical reasoning and decision-making.
  • Cue — Any piece of data or sign observed in the patient.
  • Hypothesis — A possible explanation for a patient’s signs or symptoms.

Action Items / Next Steps

  • Review both ADPIE and CJMM models for understanding when to apply each.
  • Practice using CJMM in clinical scenarios to build real-time decision-making skills.