Knowledge of the nursing care process in students at a private university in Colombia

Introduction: The nursing care process (NCP) is a key methodology in training nursing professionals for comprehensive care planning. Learning and application represent a challenge for university institutions. Objective: To identify the level of knowledge of fourth- to ninth-semester nursing program students regarding the EAP and its application. Method: A descriptive study was designed in which the Nursing Care Process Knowledge instrument was applied. Results: One hundred forty-five students participated; 57.93% presented an intermediate level of knowledge, and 5.51% reached a high level. Adequate understanding of the assessment stage was observed in 78.62%, while weaknesses in the planning stage were observed in 91.72%. Conclusions: Standardizing teaching methodologies and employing practical tools to improve their implementation is essential. Higher education institutions should promote the comprehensive use of the EAP linked to conceptual foundations for the health care of individuals, families, and the community.