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Title: Strategies to Bridge the Theory-Practice Gap in Nursing: Integrated review
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Fatemeh Zibaei   , Mohammad Ali Cheraghi , Sara Cheraghi , Maryam Esmaeilie * |
| School of Nursing and Midwifery, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. , esmaeiliem@yahoo.com |
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Abstract: (35 Views) |
Introduction: The theory-practice gap is a fundamental challenge in nursing education worldwide, including in Iran. This gap refers to the disconnect between what nursing students learn in theoretical courses and what they experience in clinical settings. This mismatch often leads to decreased quality of care, challenges in implementing evidence-based practices, and reduced motivation among students and healthcare staff.
Objective: The aim of this review study is to identify and analyze effective strategies to reduce the theory-practice gap in nursing education.
Methods: This is an Integrated review conducted through a comprehensive search of articles published between 1991 and 2025 in databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, SID, Magiran, and Google Scholar. Out of an initial 120 articles, 13 met the inclusion and exclusion criteria and were selected for in-depth analysis.
Results: The reviewed studies suggested strategies in four main domains: (1) designing curricula aligned with real clinical practice; (2) enhancing collaboration between academic institutions and healthcare centers; (3) strengthening the practical skills of both instructors and students through simulation and fieldwork; and (4) encouraging active student involvement in developing educational strategies. The TPSN model was highlighted as a novel and effective approach for bridging the gap between theory and practice.
Conclusion: The theory-practice gap is a multidimensional challenge that requires coordinated efforts across policy, education, and clinical practice levels. Successful strategies demand the active participation of students, educators, clinical nurses, and educational institutions. Strengthening the university-clinical environment connection, improving instructor competencies, and implementing innovative teaching methods such as simulation are key factors in reducing this gap.
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| Keywords: Nursing, Theory-Practice Gap, Clinical Education, Strategies |
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Type of Study: Nursing Theories |
Subject:
nursing
Received: 2025/04/23 | Accepted: 2025/08/23 | Published: 2025/08/1
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