Former PRC Nursing Board Member Dr. Florence C. Cawaon Leads Seminar for Level 4 Students
Graduating students of the University of the Cordilleras College of Nursing (UC CON) took a significant step toward their licensure goals through an in-depth seminar titled “Understanding the PNLE Framework: A Guide for Level 4 Nursing Students,” held on June 17, 2025, at the UC Auditorium.
Spearheading the session was Dr. Florence C. Cawaon, DNS, EdD, RN, a distinguished nurse educator and former member of the Professional Regulatory Board of Nursing. With her deep understanding of the Philippine Nurse Licensure Examination (PNLE), Dr. Cawaon provided valuable guidance, sharing first-hand insights into how the exam is structured, what it seeks to measure, and how students can best prepare for it.
Divided into two batches to allow for meaningful interaction, the seminar engaged students from BSN4A to BSN4K. Dr. Cawaon began the discussion with an overview of the PNLE and its Table of Specifications, explaining how the exam is mapped according to five major domains: Patient Care Competencies, Empowering, Enabling, Enhancing, and Professional and Legal Responsibilities. She connected these areas with the students’ academic training and clinical experiences, helping them to identify core competencies already within their grasp.
A focal point of the seminar was the analysis of commonly tested concepts and recurring themes that have appeared in previous board exams. Dr. Cawaon encouraged students to approach their preparation strategically, developing review plans based on the PNLE’s structure rather than relying on rote memorization or general review materials. She also emphasized the role of critical thinking and situational analysis, urging students to go beyond content recall and develop deeper clinical reasoning skills.
An open forum followed the main discussion, allowing students to voice their concerns, clarify misconceptions, and gain personalized advice from Dr. Cawaon. Many took the opportunity to ask about effective study techniques, commonly overlooked topics, and strategies to maintain mental focus during review season.
The session also highlighted the ethical, legal, and professional responsibilities that come with licensure. Dr. Cawaon reminded students that passing the PNLE is not only a test of knowledge but also a measure of readiness to uphold the integrity and trustworthiness expected of registered nurses in the Philippines.
As UC CON continues to support its students’ journey from the classroom to the professional world, seminars like this reflect its ongoing commitment to academic excellence and holistic preparation. For the graduating class of 2025, this seminar was not just a review—it was a moment of reflection, strategy, and inspiration, led by one of the country’s most respected voices in nursing education.
