Abstract: Objective: To investigate the cognition of the Nursing Classification among nurses nationally and to know the problems during implementation of the Nursing Classification. Methods: A questionnaire survey was conducted among nurses in 31 provinces (municipalities and autonomous regions) across the country. A total of 143941 nurses were included by convenience sampling. Data were analyzed regarding nurses' understanding of the Nursing Classification, and their opinions and suggestions for the Nursing Classification. Results: More than 99.71% of nurses believed that contents of the Nursing Classification were clear. 99.48% of the nurses believed that the current Nursing Classification was suitable for clinical practice. 99.18% of the nurses believed that Barthel index rating scale was applicable. The cognition of the Nursing Classification between nursing managers and nurses was different (P<0.05). The assessment of patient classification was mainly determined by doctors and nurses (51.25%). Doctors were the main person to make the prescription regarding the classification (94.57%). The problems were as follows: insufficient understanding of the Nursing Classification, limitation of the Nursing Classification in some particular clinical settings, subjective judgement of patients' condition, and insufficient cooperation between physicians and nurses. Conclusion: The Nursing Classification is clear and definite, and it has good applicability in China. However, it is still necessary to strengthen training of medical staff and promote medical cooperation. At the same time, more objective grading methods and professional grading basis should be explored further. Nursing classification standards should be constantly improved.

Key words: nursing classification; industry standards of health; nurse; questionnaire investigation