Based on what I have learned, a critical thinker develops a specific set of intellectual habits and cognitive skills. It is not based on just "knowing things". The primary focus is on the process of concluding. The core traits can and must include open-mindedness, curiosity, objectivity, skepticism, and fairness; the cognitive section; and the thinker must be analytical, reflective on practice, an effective communicator, and a logical reasoner. In life, critical thinking is an important skill every day, but especially in nursing or healthcare.
