In 2007, Piedmont Technical College’s practical nursing and associate degree nursing programs were revised to better accommodate the changes in the health care system. The new curricula enhanced the efficiency of the enrollment process by increasing the number of students admitted in both the spring and fall semesters.

These changes have generated success, which was the focus of a recent celebration.

“The faculty and students have put so much into this program and we are so very proud of them,” said Susan Timmons, vice president for educational affairs.

The program changes were not immense, but they were substantial. Students were required to complete courses that qualified them as certified nursing assistants. After that, they could enroll in either the PN or ADN program. One change in the curriculum was that students in the PN and ADN programs took their basic classes together. After three semesters, the PN students graduated and took the national exam to become licensed. The ADN students continued for two more semesters to gain their associate degree and to be licensed as registered nurses.

One indicator to the faculty members that the curriculum needed tweaking was test scores for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). PTC grads historically have passed the NCLEX with a 100 percent pass rate, but that percentage declined, due in part to changes in the test format.

“NCLEX scores across the nation dropped when the test changed,” said Estelle Martin, interim department head for nursing. “We immediately began addressing the issues to better prepare our students for the new test.”

Consultants were brought in to assist instructors with NCLEX-style questions and to help address critical thinking skills. Tutoring programs were established and the instructors reached out with extra one-on-one assistance for students who were struggling.

The results were a 97 percent pass rate for the ADN students who graduated in August. The recent celebration was held to acknowledge the success of those graduates and to encourage current students.

“We are extremely proud of our graduates and the future looks bright as well,” said Tara Harris, nursing instructor. “They are excited and passionate with the desire to continue to learn every day.”

“Our constant goal of a 100 percent pass rate is not just for the college, but also for the students,” said Martin. “We want them to successfully enter the profession knowing they are fully prepared.”

For more information on Piedmont Tech’s nursing program, contact the Admissions Office at (864) 941-8369.

Photo Caption: Faculty, staff and students came together to celebrate the pass rate success of nursing students who took the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).