Perceptions Related to Ongoing Preceptor Support

Abstract

<p>&lt;p&gt;Nurse preceptors play a pivotal role in the success of new nurses&rsquo; transition into practice (Haggerty et al., 2012). Contributing factors rely on the criteria of preceptor selection, education, recognition, and leadership support (Haggerty et al., 2012). Literature review suggests that preceptor development and support relies heavily on leadership support, however, there has been limited published research that has assessed nurse leader perceptions of preceptor selection criteria, education, support, and recognition.<br />&lt;p&gt;NPD Specialists recognized an opportunity to improve their organization&rsquo;s preceptor program after receiving current preceptor program participant evaluations and reviewing other preceptor programs in the literature. &lt;/p&gt;<br />&lt;p&gt;Rather than make changes solely based on participant evaluation of the current program, the NPD Specialists assessed both current preceptors and leadership perceptions of preceptor support. The objective of the study was to assess nurse preceptors&rsquo; and nurse leaders&rsquo; perceptions of the benefits and rewards, support, and commitment to the preceptor role. This data would also be used to identify areas of improvement to support a more robust preceptor program. &lt;/p&gt;<br />&lt;p&gt;Open answer survey items from both study groups were notable for the need of supportive preceptor practices and ongoing preceptor education. Results also suggest that nurse leaders&rsquo; strongly advocate on issues like improvements in staffing, assignments, and preceptor burnout more than the nurse preceptors. Overall our data indicates a need for improved preceptor guidelines, clear responsibilities to demonstrate nurse leader support for preceptors, staffing/assignment requirements, and a need for advanced preceptor training and recognition.&lt;/p&gt;</p>