Decision-making is the cognitive and behavioral process of selecting a course of action from multiple alternatives based on information, judgment, experience, values, and context.

In clinical practice, decision-making involves:

Interpreting data (symptoms, labs, imaging)

Weighing risks and benefits

Considering patient preferences

Applying evidence-based knowledge

Acting under time constraints and uncertainty

Effective decision-making is essential for:

Accurate diagnoses

Appropriate treatment plans

Ethical and patient-centered care

It may be:

Analytical (systematic, evidence-based)

Intuitive (pattern recognition, expertise-driven)

Or a hybrid approach, depending on the situation