The Predictive Ability of Critical Thinking, Nursing GPA, and SAT Scores on First-Time NCLEX-RN Performance

AIM: This study was conducted to investigate the predictability of several variables in achieving first-time success on the NCLEX-RN. BACKGROUND: Several researchers have attempted to investigate the differences between students who passed the NCLEX-RN the first time and those who failed. No studies used a large enough failure group to have statistical significance. METHOD: The three specific variables in this study were nursing GPA, SAT combined math and verbal scores, and critical thinking measured on a standardized assessment examination. An ex post facto study design was used to examine data from the records of associate degree nursing graduates during a three-year period. RESULTS: The most significant predictors of NCLEX-RN success were the students' nursing GPA and the overall standardized assessment examination score. CONCLUSION: The findings of this study could potentially influence the identification of students at risk for NCLEX-RN failure.