PRECEPTING

by Mary Krugman, RN, PhD, FAAN
Nurses who change positions, either moving within an organization when switching specialties or entering a new facility, should also receive a preceptor for orientation. The need for preceptors increases when nursing students receive clinical education in the facility, such as a senior practicum or course before graduation. Academic hospitals have a particularly high need for preceptors since they serve nursing students from the undergraduate level to advanced practice. Finally, the turnover rate, which is estimated at 15% to 36%, continues to drive the need for a constant supply of preceptors.
Preceptor competencies include knowledge of —

* Adult learning styles
* Effective teaching techniques
* Listening skills
* Observational and constructive feedback techniques
* Methods for planning educational experiences
* Evaluation of clinical performance
* Conflict resolution
* Techniques for minimizing “reality shock” for graduate nurses10
* The development of critical thinking
* Leadership skills
* Knowledge of national patient safety goals and nurse-sensitive indicators