Choosing a theoretical framework to guide HESI exit examination research

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Assessment and Evaluation
• Educational Measurement

Background:

• The validity of the Health Education Systems, Inc. (HESI) Exit Examination has been debated, particularly concerning its use in nursing school progression policies.
• Classical testing theory provides a framework for evaluating assessment tools like the HESI exam.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address criticisms regarding the HESI Exit Examination's validity and its role in identifying at-risk nursing students.
• To reaffirm the accuracy of the HESI Exit Examination in predicting success on the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).

Main Methods:

• Re-analysis of data from four published studies on the HESI Exit Examination's validity.
• Application of classical testing theory principles to interpret assessment data.

Main Results:

• The HESI Exit Examination demonstrated high accuracy, ranging from 96.36% to 98.30%, in predicting success on the NCLEX-RN.
• The findings reaffirm the original conclusions regarding the examination's predictive validity.

Conclusions:

• The HESI Exit Examination is a valid tool for identifying students at risk of failing the NCLEX-RN.
• Utilizing the HESI Exit Examination facilitates timely remediation for nursing students, enhancing their likelihood of licensure success.