Murray State Theses and Dissertations

Abstract

Abstract

Declining numbers in healthcare workers are nearing critical levels. In the next few years, more than a million nursing positions are predicted to be needed, increasing the demand on institutions to produce quality and competent graduates in health-related fields. Hundreds of potential students apply for nursing programs each semester, and numerous qualified applicants are denied admission due to limited space, thus placing emphasis on the selective admissions process.

This study serves to validate current admissions criteria utilized by the nursing program at Hopkinsville Community College (HCC) to ensure students with the highest probability for success are admitted. Participants include admitted nursing students (n = 237) from the Spring 2014 through Spring 2017 admission cycles. Analyzed data focused on NLN PAX-RN entrance exam scores to determine if relationships exist between individual scores and probability for successful completion of the nursing program, as well as passing the NCLEX-RN on first attempt.

Limited current research was available for comparison, but results concluded that the NLN PAX-RN does minimally predict student success. Each of the three individually tested sections on the NLN PAX-RN were evaluated and Mathematic scores have the highest correlation for predicting success. Contrary to the current ideology at HCC, no statistically significant relationship was identified between national percentile scores on the NLN PAX-RN and student success. Discussion on findings from the study and suggested continued research, provide opportunities to more effectively assist with closing the growing divide in healthcare.

Keywords: ADN program, student success, admissions criteria, NLN PAX-RN

Year manuscript completed

2019

Year degree awarded

2019

Author's Keywords

ADN program, student success, admissions criteria, NLN PAX-RN

Dissertation Committee Chair

Randal H. Wilson

Committee Chair

Randal H. Wilson

Committee Member

Teresa Clark

Committee Member

Mardis Dunham

Document Type

Dissertation

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