The dictionary defines preceptor as a teacher or a tutor. Most of us have been asked to be a preceptor at one time or another, but our preparation for this task varies immensely. Some of us may know only what we've experienced as new nurses. Some of us have attended some type of formalized training within our organizations. And some of us have worked with organized preceptor programs through our professional organizations.
Orientation plans for newly hired nurses can't be "one size fits all." We need to customize the learning to meet the individual's knowledge and skill level. In this issue, Alicia L. Culleiton, DNP, RN, CNE, shares educational techniques you can use to create a current and memorable learning experience for graduate nurses. Culleiton's article, "Pointing new nurses in the right direction," discusses Patricia Benner's five stages of development, as well as cognitive ability and what you need to consider when developing individualized learning experiences.
Preceptors also need to be sensitive to generational differences and incorporate this factor into orientation programs. Four somewhat overlapping generations make up the nursing workforce:
Veterans, born between 1925 and 1945, are still a significant force in nursing. Disciplined, financially conservative, and loyal to their organizations, they like traditional forms of recognition such as plaques and certificates.
Baby Boomers, born between 1946 and 1964, make up the largest percentage of the nursing workforce. Competitive with a strong work ethic, they like being in charge and coaching others. They're lifelong learners who are proud of their experience and competence. They appreciate public recognition and perks, such as professional award nominations.
Generation Xers, born between 1963 and 1980, are the second largest group in nursing, and many have chosen nursing as a second career. Independent, self-directed, and resourceful, they're more loyal to individual nurse managers than to organizations. They favor individual rewards such as promotions, salary increases, and additional time off over public recognition.
Millennials, born between 1980 and 2000, desire a structured orientation and want a close relationship with the nurse manager. They like frequent positive feedback because they've received it throughout their lives from their parents.
Preceptors deal with a diverse orientation population. By taking into account the orientee's level of proficiency, cognitive ability, and generational differences, you can plan a positive learning experience that will benefit the new nurse and the organization.
The late entertainer Victor Borge once said, "A smile is the shortest distance between two people." What wonderful words of wisdom for every preceptor. Until the next time: be healthy, be happy, and be great advocates for your patients ...and be great preceptors!!
AnneMarie Palatnik, MSN, RN, APN-BC
Director of Clinical Learning Center for Learning Virtua Health Mount Laurel, N.J. [email protected]
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