Wanted--committed gerontological nurse preceptors.

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Nursing Education
• Clinical Preceptorship

Background:

• The transition from nursing theory to clinical practice can be challenging for students, particularly in specialized fields like gerontology.
• Effective preceptorship is crucial for developing competent and confident nurses working with older populations.
• Addressing the theory-practice gap is essential for improving the quality of care for aging individuals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the role of gerontological nurse preceptors in student learning.
• To identify strategies for enhancing the theory-practice integration in gerontological nursing.
• To promote positive educational experiences for nursing students in geriatrics.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative analysis of preceptor experiences.
• Exploration of collaborative strategies between academic faculty and clinical preceptors.
• Development of an understanding of effective precepting techniques in gerontology.

Main Results:

• Skilled preceptors increase student confidence and reduce anxiety when working with older adults.
• Preceptors play a vital role in contextualizing theoretical knowledge within clinical settings.
• Collaboration between preceptors and faculty facilitates a more cohesive learning experience.

Conclusions:

• Gerontological nurse preceptors are instrumental in shaping positive student experiences and bridging the theory-practice divide.
• Implementing targeted preceptorship strategies can significantly improve gerontological nursing education.
• Further research into optimizing preceptor-student-faculty collaboration is warranted.