First-time exam success for SCCC nursing students

by Rachel Coleman

Nursing students at Seward County Community College recently sat for the NCLEX certification exams and achieved high pass rates. For the Registered Nurse (RN) exam, 85.7 percent, or 24 of the 28 students who took the required credential test passed successfully. In the Practical Nurse (PN) exam, 94.94 percent, or 17 of the 18 students who sat for the exam, achieved success.

“This is a great achievement, and we’re so proud of these students, as well as their instructors,” said SCCC President Brad Bennett.

Following the COVID pandemic, pass rates for the program had dipped. While low pass rates caused concern, college administrators viewed the situation in context as they worked to improve student performance.

“Unfortunately, that’s something we saw in the education world at all levels,” noted SCCC Vice President of Academic Affairs Luke Dowell. “For the college, it meant we stepped back to evaluate where we could strengthen our instruction and delivery, and equip students to succeed.”

Dowell credited nursing program director Susan Ingland, Dean of Instruction Dr. Suzanne Campbell (previous Dean of Allied Health), and recently appointed SCCC Dean of Career & Technical Education Dr. Amber Jones for spearheading efforts to regain ground. Faculty deserve a shout-out for implementing new methods of instruction and follow-up, Dowell said, “and ultimately, the students are the ones who determine their own success.”

While the results are not final until reviewed by the Kansas State Board of Nursing at its March meeting, SCCC could not be prouder of its upcoming graduates.

“The students have worked hard for this achievement and will be a great addition to their field,” said Bennett.

Learn more about nursing and other Allied Health programs at sccc.edu, or by calling Admissions at 620-417-1110.