[Nursing staff's perception on the assessment of professional performance at a university hospital].

: The objective of this study was to understand nursing staff's perception in relation to the professional performance assessment process, which is being implemented through research-action at the So Paulo University Hospital (USP). Data from 16 forums that took place in 2003 and 2003, were summarized and submitted to Content Analysis. The objectives set correspond to those established in literature and are influenced by power relationships and professional training. The participants declared that changes in the assessment tool do not ensure the success of the project, for it is essential to change the current staff management paradigms.