Factors Associated With First-Time NCLEX-RN Success: A Descriptive Research Study

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Health Professions Education
• Academic Performance Metrics

Background:

• Identifying predictors for nursing licensure exam success is crucial for program evaluation.
• The Health Education Systems, Inc. (HESI) exit examination is a key assessment in baccalaureate nursing programs.
• First-time pass rates on the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN®) are a critical outcome measure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify variables associated with Health Education Systems, Inc. (HESI) exit examination scores.
• To determine factors linked to successful first-time National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN®) pass rates.
• To explore the relationship between HESI course examination performance and NCLEX-RN® outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective descriptive study design was employed.
• Administrative data from 211 baccalaureate nursing students were analyzed.
• Key variables included HESI course exam scores, HESI exit exam scores, and NCLEX-RN® pass/fail status.

Main Results:

• Students who completed the nursing program sequentially demonstrated better performance on the HESI exit examination.
• Higher scores on specific HESI course examinations were associated with improved HESI exit examination performance.
• A direct correlation was observed between higher HESI exit examination scores and increased likelihood of passing the NCLEX-RN® on the first attempt.

Conclusions:

• Performance on HESI examinations is a significant predictor of NCLEX-RN® success.
• Sequential program completion may positively influence readiness for the NCLEX-RN®.
• Further research is warranted to develop strategies for enhancing student progression, program completion, and licensure examination success.