Abstract:
The goal of nursing programs is to produce graduates who are able to successfully pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) on the first attempt. State Boards of Nursing and the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) use the pass rate to determine the accountability and success of a nursing program. The frame work used to guide the study is the NLNAC. The purpose of this retrospective study is to examine the predictable relationship of five demographic and academic variables on the NCLEX-RN pass rates. The five variables include: (a) students with English as a second language, (b) passing COMPAS entry testing on the first attempt, (c) grade point averages (GPA) prior to admission to nursing program, (d) cumulative test averages in Health Deviations I and II, and (e) American Testing (ATI) scores on RN Predictor standardized test. Graduate nurse files from New Mexico Junior College for 2001-2003 will be used. Permission will be obtained from Ball State University and the participating institution. The anticipated sample size is 90 students. All data are used institutionally for statistical purposes as needed. Data will be anonymous. No risks are identified by participation. A predictive correlational design will be used to examine relationships among five variables and the passing of the NCLEX-RN. Finding reliable predictors of success on the NCLEX-RN is important so nursing programs may identify current students at risk for failure and implement interventions designed to promote the eventual success of greater numbers of graduates.