Preceptorship

Preceptorship

Abstract

The literature review demonstrates that work based learning programs or preceptorship are considered as the major component in building up the confidence level, professional skills, knowledge abilities, and decision making capabilities of newly qualified staff. The first benefit of work based learning programs is linked to the improved skills of the young professionals in the healthcare settings. Another benefit of work based learning is associated with the success of organisations. Work based learning plays an important role in the achievement of goals and objectives of the organisation. Some evidence based articles have described that preceptorship programs should be comprised of five elements that include supervision and guidance, daily mentoring and arrangement of classes, development of confidence and decision making abilities, building up leadership skills, and use of communication skills. Preceptorship programs will also help the fresh graduates to apply knowledge in the clinical practice effectively. It is the responsibility of hospital administration to use preceptorship programs for the guidance of fresh graduates.

Preceptorship

Introduction

This review will examine the research on the preceptorship and will identify themes that currently dominate the literature on this topic. Initially definitions will be offered; subsequently the literature will be reviewed and arranged under themes. The links to work based learning will be explored and recommendations will be made. The paper will also confer each and every aspect of the Preceptorship programs to evaluate its effectiveness in the healthcare settings. The use of appropriate evidence based knowledge and recommendation will be beneficial for the organisations to achieve their goals and objectives. The paper will also demonstrate the work based learning model and its elements to give detailed knowledge about these programs. Recommendation and use of questionnaire will be also discussed in the paper.

Discussion

Preceptors

Preceptors can be defined as the normal first level nurses who have the working experience of at least two years in the clinical practice. Professionals of the healthcare settings expects from preceptors to have the complete knowledge and information on preceptorship. Professionals also expect from them to show willingness to commence their roles and responsibilities. Preceptor also refers to those skilled professional who supervises the clinical students to improve their practical skills with the clients or patients.

Preceptee is an individual who works and studies under a supervisor or preceptor. Preceptee in the nursing profession refers to those nursing students who work under the professionals to enhance their professional skills. The particular nature of the relationship between Preceptee and Preceptor has enough potential to maintain an appropriate environment in the clinical settings. It is also a fact that there are no qualifications that are linked with the position of Preceptor, but individuals should be capable of certain professional skills to deliver appropriate outcomes.

A study was conducted by Raines (2012) that focuses on the views of nursing preceptors regarding precepting the nursing students. The study suggested that the process of preceptorship is widely used to enhance and improve the skills and knowledge of the undergraduate students of nursing profession. The study further described that the preceptors are playing ...