Nursing Care as a Scientific Instrument in the African Context

Abstract

Clinical reasoning and the nursing care process are essential for safe decision-making and quality care, although limited by contextual challenges. This study proposes an analysis of the applicability of the Nursing Care Process (NCP), as a scientific instrument to strengthen professional practice and improve the quality of care in the African context. A systematic review was conducted of studies published between 2019 and 2024 on the implementation of the NCP in African hospitals. Associated factors, quality of care, development of clinical reasoning, as well as barriers and facilitators influencing its application were examined. Study selection followed PRISMA criteria and methodological quality was assessed using the Jadad and STROBE tools. In turn, 5 studies meeting the inclusion criteria were identified, which evidenced the partial implementation of the nursing care process; only 31.7 % of the reviewed articles included structured diagnoses. Its use was conditioned by professional training, access to technology, and institutional culture. The recording of interventions and outcomes showed variations among the studies, which highlighted limitations in resources and technology availability. The rigorous implementation of the NCP in African contexts requires training, regulatory, and management strategies to strengthen its systematic use. Its implementation elevates professional standards, reinforces the autonomy and scientific nature of nursing, and positions professionals as key actors in health systems.