Date of Graduation

1989

Document Type

Dissertation/Thesis

Abstract

This causal-comparative ex post facto study was designed to determine whether any of the independent variables, singularly or in combination were predictive of NCLEX-RN success, and to identify the point or points in time when students at risk for failure could be accurately identified. The variables examined were pre-admission variables (HS GPA, SAT scores), matriculation variables including the GPA from the courses in the humanities, math and natural sciences, the social sciences, nursing courses, and the AssessTest score. A significant positive relationship between the AssessTest score and the NCLEX-RN was demonstrated at p {dollar}<{dollar} 0.05. The strongest combination of predictor variables, although not statistically significant, were the Assesstest score, social sciences, senior, and nursing GPA. Together these variables accounted for 53.0 percent of the variance in NCLEX-RN outcomes for the students who passed and failed. Discriminant analysis enabled the correct classification of 87 percent of the sample using these variables. This study indicates that students can be most accurately identified at the end of the senior year. The statistical analysis using stepwise regression and discriminant analysis were helpful in increasing the credibility of the predictor variables. Attempts to predict NCLEX-RN performance throughout the student's academic career serves as a valuable resource for nursing faculty.

Share

COinS