The role of the Preceptor

Kris L’Ecuyer, PhD(c), RN, CCNSAssociate Professor

Saint Louis University School of NursingLecuyerk@slu.edu

314-977-8975

The role of the Preceptor

• Objectives:– Discuss the purpose of preceptorships.– Distinguish between undergraduate and graduate

level preceptorships.– Identify the responsibilities and roles of the

preceptor.– Understand the role of the nurse preceptor as

coach.

Purpose of preceptorships

• Facilitate clinical education of nurse practitioner students in clinical settings.

• Provide opportunities for the integration of theory and practice in clinical settings.

• Provide role immersion opportunities for the NP student.

Graduate Level NP students

• Preceptee has RN experience– Various amounts of time– Various specialties– Need to understand context and relate it to future

practice goals• Objectives of Precepted experience are different– More complex– More independent

Responsibilities of preceptors

• Understand adult learning theory– Characteristics of adult learners, learning theories, domains of

learning• Understand personality theories• Create positive learning environment• Share NP experience and wisdom• Role model expertise• Leadership• Assess competency

Roles of Preceptor

• Educator• Socializer• Advocate• Consultant• Role model• Coach• Evaluator• Mentor

Focus on the COACHING role:Establishing and managing the coaching relationship

• Getting to know each other– Ask them lots of questions– Establish yourself as a good listener– Creating and maintaining rapport.

• Establishing the Rules of the game– Clarifying expectations

• Discuss your expectations of each other

– Learner issues and Teacher issues

Learn to be a coach• Coaching: Art and Science

• Goals of coaching:– Guide– Inspire– Empower

• Coaches help the players discover the answers

Top 10 Qualities of a good coach

1. Knowledge of the game2. Willingness to learn new strategies or seek new information3. Motivator4. Able to Individualize and adapt style as needed5. Effective communicator6. Good listener7. Discipline8. Displays commitment9. Educator10. Evaluator

Nurture your Preceptor Role

• Practice preceptor skills• Participate in learning opportunities• Self- reflect• Identify resources and support• Seek feedback