GRAYSON — The Kentucky Christian University Yancey School of Nursing’s class of 2009 has achieved a 93 percent passage rate on the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses. The passage rate is based on students’ first attempt to pass the test.
“This is very important to us on several levels,” said Abigail Beck, dean of the program. “A high passage rate is important for every school of nursing as it is a crucial indicator of program effectiveness. Data from pass rates for first-time test takers is seriously considered by our regulating body, the Kentucky Board of Nursing. In addition, our national accrediting body, the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, reviews pass rates as a quality indicator.”
Beck also said that the passage rate, “allows us to further validate our program’s effectiveness in preparing students to practice as licensed registered nurses. It’s further indication that the Yancey School of Nursing is meeting its mission to place well-educated nurses who practice excellence in nursing as a Christian ministry.”
KCU’s Yancey School of Nursing program provides a course of study which includes a strong liberal arts foundation and is complemented by a Biblical studies curriculum.
A three-year program of comprehensive, carefully designed nursing courses combine intense classroom study with practical clinical experience both in the self-contained lab and in formal clinical environments throughout the region.
“The 93 percent passage rate is a terrific accomplishment,” said KCU President-elect Dr. Jeff Metcalf, “and it is very encouraging to know that graduates of the program are performing so admirably and serving such an important role in our community.”
Bethany Dyer, associate professor and BSN coordinator, facilitates senior students in completion of a capstone course which includes 120 hours of clinical practice and intensive preparation for the NCLEX-RN examination. As part of the course, students must pass a comprehensive predictor exam, which provides a good indication of a students’ preparation for the NCLEX-RN.
“It is a thorough process requiring great commitment from the students,” Dyer said. “When our students are placed in positions of leadership to care for patients, it is gratifying to know they have the best education possible because they will be faced with life-or-death situations.”
Students of the KCU Yancey School of Nursing occupy a new state-of-the-art facility on the Grayson campus made possible by a collaborative effort between the university and King’s Daughters Medical Center, a grant from the James Graham Brown Foundation Inc. and a gift from Nina Yancey of Ashland.
