Exploring the intrinsic benefits of nursing preceptorship: A personal perspective

Preceptorship is a strategy commonly used in nursing education. Its benefits have been reported in assisting nursing students and novice nurses with reality based knowledge, skill acquisition, confidence, and professional socialization. Though the benefits provided to the preceptor are under reported. This article aims to explore the intrinsic value seasoned nurses obtain through their participation in preceptorship in clinical practice. A personal perspective is examined using appreciative inquiry and reveals eight key themes which include: acknowledgement, preceptor-preceptee relationship/friendship, reciprocal learning, passion, satisfaction, helping, legacy and affirmation. Connections are then formed with the identified intrinsic values and the preceptor's commitment and desire to participate in preceptorship in clinical practice. Exploration of positive based personal experiences with preceptorship in clinical practice may help to retain and recruit preceptors for future preceptorship experiences, contribute to the growth and development of the preceptor role, and professional nursing practice.