Evaluating Alignment Between the RN Comprehensive Predictor and the NCLEX-RN ® Test Plan

BACKGROUND: is used by boards of nursing to assess minimal competence of licensed entry-level nurses, and nursing graduates need to pass it to practice. The purpose of the Comprehensive Predictor examination is to provide nursing students with a probability of passing the NCLEX licensure examination. METHOD: Examination scores from more than 75,000 nursing students were analyzed using confirmatory factor analysis to test the hypothesized structure of the NCLEX blueprint and evaluate relationships among its categories and subcategories. RESULTS: The Comprehensive Predictor assessment data fits the NCLEX blueprint and suggests that nursing competence, as reflected in test performance, aligns with all domains, including clinical judgment. CONCLUSION: The factors included in the Comprehensive Predictor assessment are congruent with the NCLEX-RN test plan. Educational strategies and assessment practices can be further developed from the results.