Instead of hiring unlicensed nurses, authorities should focus on enhancing the board test and maintaining the 75% passing rate to ensure medical professionals' ability and integrity, Senate Minority Leader Koko Pimentel said Wednesday.

Pimentel suggested that the test needed to be reexamined by making it direct to the point as it will test competence and readiness.

Questions must be basic, entry-level questions for the nursing profession, he added.

According to Pimentel, employing nurses who scored below the passing standard may jeopardize the integrity of the testing process.

He explained that the 75% passing percentage was set to identify those who are capable and eager to serve the public.

Patients will feel more confident knowing that the medical professional they are dealing with is certified, he said, emphasizing that if unlicensed nurses are hired, the senator believes it should begin with the next board exam.

Any changes should also be notified prior to the next cycle, he stressed.

The first nursing board exam of the year was held in May, with a second batch scheduled for November.

If the plan is implemented retroactively, it may result in violations of current rules and regulations, such as the 75% passing grade, according to Pimentel.

Pimentel also urged the DOH in a statement on Tuesday to prioritize raising healthcare workers wages before hiring unlicensed nurses.