PREDICTING NCLEX-RN® FAILURE IN A PRE-LICENSURE BACCALAUREATE NURSING PROGRAM

Abstract

Graduates of pre-licensure baccalaureate nursing programs must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses, or NCLEX-RN®. First-time pass rates are the primary quality indicator for nursing programs. National pass rates are approximately 90% and schools falling below 85% face funding and accreditation risks. Schools of nursing have adopted stringent admission and progression policies based on predictors of licensure success. However, there is a gap in the current body of evidence associated with predictors of NCLEX-RN® failure. Nursing programs using predictors of success for admission and progression decisions are shutting the door of opportunity on students who could be successful if given the opportunity. The purpose of this dissertation is to develop a model that predicts NCLEX-RN® failure to guide nursing program policy and intervention for at-risk nursing students.