Improving Nurse Preceptor Competence With Clinical Teaching on a Dedicated Education Unit.

BACKGROUND

Nurse preceptors have varying backgrounds of teaching experience and often cite insufficient preparation as a common reason for difficulties transitioning from the role of clinician to educator. This project evaluated an online education program for nurse preceptors of prelicensure students.

METHOD

Nurse preceptors received online instruction and howto examples in the form of clinical teaching vignettes to improve the teaching component of their role. Pre- and postsurveys were used to help determine program effectiveness.

RESULTS

After the training, nurse preceptors indicated they felt more competent when teaching students, and likewise, students reported increased satisfaction with the quality of teaching.

CONCLUSION

There are numerous roles assumed by nurse preceptors. Although many nurse preceptors are expert clinicians, they may lack expertise in the teaching role. Preceptor preparation programs that provide practical examples through the use of vignettes can contribute to the development of teaching competencies. .