Undergraduate thesis (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) - - Foundation University, 2025.

Includes bibliographical references and appendices.

Abstract
Starting a career in nursing can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially when
newly graduated nurses enter clinical settings and realize that applying what they
learned in school is not always as straightforward as expected.
This study aims to explore novice nurses' perception in integration of theoretical
knowledge into their actual nursing practice.
Using a descriptive-correlational design, the study gathered data from 100 novice nurses
working in various healthcare institutions in Dumaguete City. A survey questionnaire
was used to assess five key areas such as knowledge, practice, environment, learning, and
demographic background.
The results showed that while novice nurses generally feel confident in their theoretical
knowledge particularly in areas like evidence-based care and critical thinking, many still
face challenges when trying to put that knowledge into action. Interestingly, they rated
the support from their clinical environment and the opportunities for continuous
learning quite positively, suggesting that the environment does play an important role in
helping them adapt.
The findings highlight that bridging the gap between theory and practice isn't just about
what nurses know, it's also about where they work, who mentors them, and how
supported they feel. This study calls for stronger mentorship programs, clearer clinical
guidelines, and more hands-on learning opportunities to help novice nurses transition
smoothly and confidently into professional practice.