TITLE:
The Theory-Practice Gap in the Initial Assessment Phase of the Nursing Process: A Survey of Clinical Practices in a Hospital in the North-West Region of Cameroon
AUTHORS:
Rhoda Beisamoh Kimbi, Lifoter Kenneth Navti, Atanga Mary Bi Suh
KEYWORDS:
Nursing Process, Initial Assessment Phase, Theory-Practice Gap, Clinical Practice, North West Region, Cameroon
JOURNAL NAME:
Voice of the Publisher,
Vol.12 No.3,
August
11,
2026
ABSTRACT: Initial nursing assessment is the first and most critical step of the nursing process, providing essential data for planning patient care. It is typically conducted at admission within 8 hours for stable patients and within 24 hours for unstable patients. Despite its importance, gaps between theory and practice persist, potentially affecting patient outcomes. This study aimed to examine nurses’ conceptual understanding, practices, and challenges related to the initial assessment phase of the nursing process in a hospital in the North-West Region of Cameroon. A descriptive cross-sectional design was used among 119 nurses selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire and checklist and analyzed using SPSS version 25. Statistical significance was set at p p > 0.05). The study concludes that although nurses demonstrate good theoretical awareness of initial assessment, gaps remain in conceptual depth and holistic practice. Strengthening training, supervision, and resource availability is recommended.