Preceptor Practice: Initial Results of a National Association for Nursing Professional Development Study

Area of Science:

• Nursing Professional Development
• Healthcare Education
• Preceptor Practice Analysis

Background:

• The Association for Nursing Professional Development recognized the need to define essential preceptor competencies.
• The Ulrich Precepting Model provided a framework for analyzing preceptor roles, knowledge, and activities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To validate the Ulrich Precepting Model's seven preceptor roles.
• To identify essential knowledge and activities for effective preceptor practice.
• To inform the development of targeted educational strategies for nursing preceptors.

Main Methods:

• A national survey was conducted in 2020.
• 3,623 preceptors participated in the study.
• The Ulrich Precepting Model was utilized to analyze preceptor roles and practices.

Main Results:

• The seven preceptor roles within the Ulrich Precepting Model were validated by the surveyed preceptors.
• Key domains of knowledge and practice essential to preceptor roles were confirmed.
• Significant findings support the necessity of structured preceptor preparation.

Conclusions:

• Nursing professional development practitioners must implement comprehensive initial training for preceptors.
• Ongoing educational support is crucial for maintaining and enhancing preceptor effectiveness.
• The validated model provides a foundation for evidence-based preceptor development programs.