Creating NCLEX Qustions

In 2018 the NCLEX practice analysis is in the process of being completed and analyzed. For future information visit Practice Analysis. Because of the analysis, there will be some changes in the test plan. Detailed test plans for both RN and PN are available from NCSBN Test Plans for RN and PN. There are also a variety of test preparation services available from NCSBN to assist students in preparing for the NCELX exam. One particularly useful review tool is NCSBN's Review for NCLEX -RN and PN Examination.

Faculty writing testing items using the NCLEX test plans that are the foundation for creating their examinations often find the process very challenging. The test plan must carefully mirror as much as possible the NLCEX categories to ensure the students are exposed to the appropriate content as well as to the assessment of the appropriate learning context. For example, with entry level courses the questions may contain more knowledge-based questions, and as the student progresses in the curriculum, the question mix focuses on critical thinking and analysis. Sorting through this process is often a struggle for even the most seasoned educator.

Do not be seduced to use publisher tests bank which lacks validity and reliability assessments including peer review for compliance with NCLEX standards. Students can readily find on the internet the exams. Thus, investing in having an expert conduct an item writing workshop for faculty is a wise investment. At the end of the workshop, faculty will have a better understanding of the current NCLEX exam, alternative format questions, how to create a curriculum and course test plan, the use of item analysis, and perhaps most importantly how to write items. Additional follow up expert consultation can assist faculty with creating their own valid and reliable test banks. Shared is information about how to access and use free online test administration software as well as tips on test security and academic integrity proven solutions. Given the critical importance of maintaining a high pass rate on the NCLEX exam a small investment in faculty to support this effort is a cost-effective decision. Workshop fees are very cost effective and typically are substantially less than sending one or two faculty to an item writing workshop.  

For further information give me a call or send an email to rlanders10@gmail.com 

Dr. Bob

Rl Anders & Associates

So You Want to Be a Nurse? Success Strategies for Nursing School

So You Want to Be a Nurse? Success Strategies for Nursing School

I have updated my short ebook for those considering nursing school. There are also many helpful tips designed to assist students with being successful in nursing school. Would you please take a few minutes to look at the information and share such with any potential or current nursing students? l

Dr. Bob

Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Proposes Flat Payment

Historically provider payments differ between the setting in which the services are delivered. For example, the same procedure done in a hospital-based clinic will be reimbursed at a higher rate than the one done any medical office. The justification made by the American Hospital Association that because of the higher fixed costs there should be a higher reimbursement rate.  Thus, even though the services were similar patients were required to pay higher co-pay in some cases for the care given hospital-based system versus an office setting. Taxpayers were the one footing the bill for this difference in payments which had little or nothing to do outcomes of care.

Many physician groups particularly specialists are complaining that this change in a flat payment system will impact their revenue. Some physicians are hypothesizing that the reduction in payments will decrease their income. The Center for Medicare & Medicaid is proposing a change in the paperwork requirement for submission of billing information. It will move from a four-step process to a single form that needs to be submitted. If the provider can justify that additional time is needed to care for complex care patients an additional payment can be requested. The government proposes that the flat payment will improve efficiency and outcomes of care.

While the government does not indicate that the proposal will reduce the cost of care, it does seem at least in my reading of the proposed regulations that there is some intent to level the payment across multiple settings for the same procedures. Traditional taxpayers have been told by many provided groups their cost of doing business is unique and higher in certain geographical areas, therefore, they should not be forced to become more cost-efficient and simply receive higher compensation from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid. The new payment is scheduled for implementation on January 1, 2019. For more information about this particular proposal, please view NPR Story Regarding Flat Payment

Dr. Bob