Socialization transformation: the passage from caregiver to educator

The transition from clinical nurse to clinical instructor is not an instinctive one. New instructors do not possess inherent qualities to make this transformation smoothly. It is necessary to provide them with outside assistance. A comprehensive orientation plan featuring mentoring is a viable approach. The plan is designed to provide the novice with consistent information and feedback inevitably leading to role clarification. Once role clarification is achieved, confidence and creativity can flourish. Ultimately, the novice instructor can become a highly-skilled clinical instructor and a valuable asset to the staff development department.