Final answer:
The student is demonstrating 'thinking independently' by forming her own judgment of the client's and family's situation based on personal experience and understanding, amidst the staff's critical viewpoint.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student is demonstrating critical thinking through the attitude of thinking independently. This refers to the student's ability to form her own judgments and opinions based on experience and understanding, despite what the majority of the staff believe or what cultural norms may dictate. The student is not swayed by the critical view of the staff towards the client's family, and instead assesses the situation based on her personal care and interaction with the patient and family. In the field of health care, it is essential for professionals to respect diverse cultural beliefs about health and illness, and to provide care that is culturally sensitive and appropriate.
Critical thinking in healthcare is crucial for navigating complex and often sensitive matters such as cultural differences in health beliefs and practices. This skill enables healthcare professionals to offer better treatment options tailored to individual patient needs. The ability to exercise this type of reasoning is part of delivering quality care and developing professional competence.