Setting up a professional licensure examination in nursing (Plen) in a university teaching hospital in Karachi, Pakistan

Curriculums have to be evaluated. Examinations are measurable outcomes for students, faculty, and community and service providers. Putting value and effort in outcome measurement is vital for a school of nursing's reputation and accreditation (Clifton & Schriner, 2010). Nurse education in the country in Pakistan will be highlighted. The development and structure for setting up of Professional Licensure Examination will be discussed. A process for developing a test back will also be highlighted. This paper will describe the challenges, hurdles and lessons learnt along the way from conceptualization to operationalization and delivery of a professional licensure examination for a four year nursing baccalaureate curriculum. The challenges and issues will be highlighted as they have presented over the last eighteen months. The experiences and lessons learnt will go a long way in assisting other schools of nursing in the country and the region in implementation licensure examinations. (c) 2011 Published by Elsevier Ltd.