Pearson VUE, the organization entrusted with overseeing the Computer-Based Test (CBT) program on behalf of the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), UK, has reported the discovery of irregular data at a third-party CBT test center in Ibadan, Nigeria. Following this alarming revelation, all testing activities at the center have been promptly suspended. Approximately 5% of the professionals on the NMC register who qualified in Nigeria, amounting to 512 individuals, had undertaken their CBT examinations at this specific location.
The NMC has swiftly taken action by contacting these individuals to apprise them of the situation and has launched comprehensive investigations to ascertain whether any fraudulent or erroneous entries have been made into the register.
Simultaneously, the NMC has temporarily halted the processing of applications from aspiring professionals seeking to join the register but are not yet listed. These applicants will be advised to retake the CBT, while further information will be collected to enable the NMC to make informed decisions on their applications.
Pearson VUE, after meticulously scrutinizing the CBT data from all test sites worldwide, has confirmed that there is no evidence of similar irregularities occurring at any other location.
Expressing her views on the issue, Andrea Sutcliffe, the Chief Executive and Registrar of the NMC, underscored the organization’s unwavering adherence to regulatory protocols. Sutcliffe emphasized that the NMC will take appropriate measures, including the refusal of registration or removal from the register, if deemed necessary, to safeguard the public and individuals utilizing health and care services. She further reassured the public that this incident affects only a minute fraction of professionals on the register, and no concerns have been raised thus far regarding the fitness to practice of these individuals.
The CBT program, a crucial component of the NMC’s Test of Competence (ToC), evaluates the skills and knowledge of overseas applicants. It comprises a computer-based multiple-choice test (CBT), which candidates usually undertake in their home countries, and a practical examination called the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE), conducted in the United Kingdom. Pearson VUE has been the NMC’s designated test provider since 2014.
Out of the total of 1,970 candidates who appeared for the CBT at the Ibadan center, 512 individuals are currently registered with the NMC.
Since the emergence of these concerns, Pearson VUE has expeditiously suspended testing operations at the Ibadan center. Collaborating closely, the NMC and Pearson VUE have diligently examined the available data and evidence. The NMC is proactively communicating with applicants and professionals listed on the register, furnishing them with comprehensive information regarding the situation and its implications. The investigative process has been initiated to ascertain whether any individuals gained unauthorized or incorrect entry into the register.
Affected individuals are being provided with the option to retake the test, with the associated exam fees covered by Pearson VUE. However, successful completion of the retake does not guarantee entry into the register or the ability to remain on it; it will merely contribute to the information used by the NMC in making final decisions.
As per the communication from NMC, the NMC will evaluate the need for interim suspension orders on a case-by-case basis, considering the evidence collected during the investigations.
. Approximately 5% of Nigerian professionals on the NMC register may have gained fraudulent or incorrect entry. Pearson VUE, the test provider, has suspended testing at the center. Measures taken to protect public safety while ensuring fair investigations. No similar irregularities found at other test sites. Applicants affected by the issue asked to retake the test. NMC prioritizes integrity of the register and public protection){kind=link}