| Learning Objective #1: Identify strategies for success of minority baccalaureate nursing students | |||
| Learning Objective #2: Evaluate resources necessary to promote success of students in a program |
Objective: The purpose of the project was to carefully assess the learning needs of high-risk, disadvantaged students and evaluate available resources to address those needs.
Design: Quasi-experimental design, using standardized testing measures (HESI) to evaluate the effectiveness of a variety of supportive educational strategies.
Population, Sample, Setting, Years: The population consisted of a 100% minority generic baccalaureate nursing student group from a historically under served, minority (Hispanic) geographic region. The sample consisted of 100 students admitted to the BSN program in the three years of the project, 1999-2002.
Variables studied: The variables examined included admission test scores, prenursing GPA, course grades, course specific achievement test scores, exit examination scores, and NCLEX-RN scores.
Methods: Students were enrolled in the project on admission and data, including test scores and numerical course grades, were recorded at the end of each of the seven semesters of the course of study. Upon graduation and completion of NCLEX-RN. Data were analyzed for group and individual trends. (HRSA funding was obtained to defray costs of standardized testing and tutorial supports.)
Findings: Two cohorts graduated during the three years of the project. In Cohort I, 21 of 32 entering students (67%) completed the program on time and 18 of them (86%) passed the NCLEX-RN on the first attempt. In Cohort II, 18 of 30 completed the program on time and 100% passed NCLEX-RN on the first attempt.
Conclusions: The project was successful due to student, faculty, and institution commitment.
Implications: Minority students can achieve NCLEX-RN success if high standards are set and maintained and intensive supportive strategies are provided by the faculty and institution. This project is replicable by any institution willing to make the commitment.
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Back to 14th International Nursing Research Congress
Sigma Theta Tau International
10-12 July 2003