An evaluation of preceptors' perceptions of educational preparation and organizational support for their role
Author(s)
Henderson, A
Fox, R
Malko-Nyhan, K
Griffith University Author(s)
Year published
2006
Metadata
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Background: This longitudinal, descriptive study evaluated nurse preceptors' perceptions of a 2-day educational workshop and subsequent organizational support offered to prepare them for their roles as preceptors. Methods: Thirty-six registered nurses who attended preceptor workshops and then acted as preceptors participated in focus groups or interviews 2 to 3 months and 6 to 9 months after their educational preparation to identify the usefulness of the preparation, the subsequent support by management, and the potential changes in their perceptions. Results: Respondents identified intrinsic rewards and opportunities for ...
View more >Background: This longitudinal, descriptive study evaluated nurse preceptors' perceptions of a 2-day educational workshop and subsequent organizational support offered to prepare them for their roles as preceptors. Methods: Thirty-six registered nurses who attended preceptor workshops and then acted as preceptors participated in focus groups or interviews 2 to 3 months and 6 to 9 months after their educational preparation to identify the usefulness of the preparation, the subsequent support by management, and the potential changes in their perceptions. Results: Respondents identified intrinsic rewards and opportunities for growth for nurses who take on the preceptor role. However, adequate preparation and organizational support are essential to effectively perform their duties as clinicians and preceptors. Conclusion: Although a 2-day educational preparation program was perceived as adequate, the practice setting must be reorganized to provide greater support for preceptors. Preceptors should be supported by providing continuing education, effective scheduling, and adequate time for learning and feedback in the clinical environment.
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View more >Background: This longitudinal, descriptive study evaluated nurse preceptors' perceptions of a 2-day educational workshop and subsequent organizational support offered to prepare them for their roles as preceptors. Methods: Thirty-six registered nurses who attended preceptor workshops and then acted as preceptors participated in focus groups or interviews 2 to 3 months and 6 to 9 months after their educational preparation to identify the usefulness of the preparation, the subsequent support by management, and the potential changes in their perceptions. Results: Respondents identified intrinsic rewards and opportunities for growth for nurses who take on the preceptor role. However, adequate preparation and organizational support are essential to effectively perform their duties as clinicians and preceptors. Conclusion: Although a 2-day educational preparation program was perceived as adequate, the practice setting must be reorganized to provide greater support for preceptors. Preceptors should be supported by providing continuing education, effective scheduling, and adequate time for learning and feedback in the clinical environment.
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Journal Title
Journal of Continuing Education in Nursing
Volume
37
Issue
3
Publisher URI
Subject
Nursing
Education systems