Preceptor
Experienced competent staff nurse who has received formal training to function as a roll model and research person to newly-hired staff nurses
Preceptee
Newly hired or transferred staff nurse who participates in a preceptorship program for orientation to an assigned unit
Preceptorship
An organized instructional program in which staff nurse preceptors facilitate the integration of newly employed or newly transferred nursing staff into their role responsibilities in a new work setting.
Responsibilities of the Preceptor
- Become knowledgeable about the goals and objectives of the student of whom you are serving as a preceptor.
- Establish a learning plan with them.
- Be aware of their expected levels of knowledge and skills.
- Act as a role model in the development of the students professional and ethical values and attitudes.
- Encourage critical thinking and problem solving by frequently posing problems.
Continued...
- Provide time to answer questions.
- Provide instruction and demonstrate desired skills before the student is expected to undertake new tasks or skills.
- Make the student feel at home by including them in informal discussions or social functions.
- Supervise and provide constructive feedback to develop their skills and competencies.
- Review their learning plan and revise as needed.
At the end of the training period constructively review the students training plan with them. Point out areas of strength and possible weaknesses of their skills, abilities, and knowledge development over the period in a tactful, supportive manner.
Consider the role as a preceptor as a learning experience and be open to new ideas and suggestions.
Discuss questions, criticisms or disagreements in private.
Seek feedback from the student in order to assess your contributions as a preceptor.
Evaluate the training program fairly and objectively, offering constructive feedback.
Who Really Benefits From All This Effort????
Patients
And Us
So assist and guide your preceptees with your head, with you hands, and with your heart to provide extraordinary care, every patient, everytime.
Roles and Responsibilities of a Nurse Preceptor