Implementation of a Standardized Evaluation Tool to Improve Preceptor Confidence

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Healthcare Quality Improvement
• Professional Development

Background:

• New graduate nurses require effective preceptorship for successful practice integration.
• Preceptor confidence and consistent evaluation are crucial for nurse transition.
• Evidence-based tools enhance the evaluation of new graduate nurse performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of the Norwegian Nurse Competence Scale on preceptor confidence.
• To assess the consistency of performance measures for new graduate nurses post-implementation.
• To explore the utility of a standardized evaluation tool in acute care settings.

Main Methods:

• The Norwegian Nurse Competence Scale was implemented in three acute care organizations.
• A standardized process for evaluating new graduate nurses was established.
• Preceptor confidence levels were assessed pre- and post-intervention.

Main Results:

• Individual summary scores for new graduate nurse evaluation ranged from 17-25 pre-intervention.
• Post-intervention, scores ranged from 20-25, indicating improvement.
• The implementation demonstrated mid to high levels of preceptor confidence.

Conclusions:

• The Norwegian Nurse Competence Scale is an effective tool for evaluating new graduate nurses.
• Standardized tools enhance preceptor confidence and ensure consistent performance assessment.
• This approach supports the successful transition of nurses into practice.