Final answer:
The priority question for a nurse about an educational program should be if the program is accredited, as this ensures the quality and recognition of the program. The NCLEX pass rate is also essential to consider, reflecting the program's effectiveness in preparing students for licensure. While cost and online availability matter, they are secondary to accreditation and educational outcomes.
Step-by-step explanation:
When choosing an educational program, particularly in the field of nursing, the nurse's priority question should be 'Is the program accredited?'. Accreditation is essential as it ensures that the program meets certain quality standards and that credits and degrees will be recognized by employers and other institutions. Knowing the accreditation status can provide confidence in the program’s value and adherence to professional standards.
Other important considerations include the NCLEX pass rate, which indicates how well the program prepares students for the National Council Licensure Examination, a requisite for nursing licensure. A high pass rate typically reflects the effectiveness of the program's curriculum and faculty. While factors such as cost and the availability of online courses are also important, they do not necessarily speak to the quality of the educational experience as accreditation and pass rates do.
Ultimately, decisions regarding further education in nursing and the choice of the program should be weighed carefully, considering all these factors to lead to a successful career outcome.