ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: To determine the relationship between scores on the Westside Test Anxiety Scale (WTAS) and nurse certification rates. BACKGROUND: Nurse certification is associated with improved outcomes. Understanding intrinsic factors associated with low certification rates including test anxiety could help nurse leaders improve certification rates. METHODS: This descriptive, correlational study used a convenience sample of 577 RNs with at least 2 years of nursing experience. Participants completed a survey of their demographics and the 10-question WTAS. RESULTS: Certified nurses were significantly older and had more years of experience. Noncertified nurses had significantly higher scores on the WTAS. CONCLUSIONS: Facilities working to increase their nurse certification rates may consider adding test anxiety reduction interventions to other levels of support.
