Preparing Professional Preceptors

Purpose:
Preparing quality preceptors to mentor and train nurses, ensures adequate and competent staff which contributes to a safe environment for patients, families, and nurses. A formal standardized preceptor program that offers training and ongoing professional development was implemented.

Relevance/Significance:
The Nursing Education and Professional Development Department at a large inner city teaching hospital implemented a preceptor training program to ensure quality initiatives and evidence based care. Validation of protocols and competency training, mentoring, goal setting, and offering feedback for the preceptors ensures accurate and safe transfer of knowledge to the new hire.

Strategy and Implementation:
Historically preceptors were chosen based on knowledge, experience, and number of years in nursing. Many nurses were assigned this extra responsibility without having a true desire or formal training. The new preceptor program supports and cultivates a work environment that allows preceptors to meet the demands of their roles as educators. A standardized program was implemented which directly influences the newly hired or transitioning nurse's quality, safety, confidence and competency level. A formal application process was implemented to screen for the highest quality baccalaureate nurses to precept. Formal training entails a one day workshop that focuses on goal setting, adult learning, generational differences, and other soft skills. A second day consists of skills validation and simulation to review evidence based practice, policy, and providing feedback. Continual professional development opportunities are available to support the preceptors, while offering contact hours.

Evaluation:
Surveys of the preceptors found that following the implementation of the new preceptor program, there was an increased comfort level with the learning process, goal setting, and providing feedback. Following the implementation of the program the new nurses' survey results showed an increase in comfort level and confidence with transitioning to a new role.

Implications for Practice:
A robust nursing preceptor program is imperative to ensure competent nurses provide quality care. The current health care demands require nurses be adaptable and innovative at improving professional practice which impacts patient outcomes and contributes to a safe environment.