Remembering what it felt like to be a brand-new nurse will help you be a fantastic preceptor to a newly graduating nurse. Even if it were true, the notion that “nurses eat their young” would be detrimental to both new nurses and the patients they take care of. Beginning a new job is difficult enough; having to deal with inappropriate behavior from a preceptor or fresh coworkers only serves to discourage the new nurse and may impede their ability to develop their abilities and provide patient care. Here are seven methods to mentor novice nurses as well as their patients while being an outstanding preceptor.
Assume They Are Unaware
Preceptors’ presumption that new nurses know something they do not is one of the most troublesome situations between them and preceptors. This could entail using specialty-specific jargon while speaking, instructing preceptors on difficult concepts they do not grasp, or giving them responsibilities they are ill-equipped to handle. Remember that being a nurse and training to become a nurse are completely distinct things, regardless of the number of hours the nurse practitioner devote to clinical. Use terminology that a layperson may comprehend, and before utilizing any terminology, explain it in a way that is not patronizing.
Clearly Respond to Inquiries
Never pass judgement or criticism on a rookie nurse for asking a question, even if it appears too simple. A nurse who is afraid to raise questions out of concern for humiliation is the absolute worst thing a patient needs. Every nurse’s development depends on their ability to study and practice in a setting that fosters their progress.
Talk About the Social Environment
While the primary responsibility of the preceptor is to train, monitor, and evaluate the ability of a new nurse to operate individually, it is also important to talk about the structure of the company they work for and how to succeed in it. For instance, it might be wise to let the new nurse know if the boss is highly forgiving when it comes to swapping duties yet stern when it comes to being late. In some hospitals, the rules regarding breaks are interpret significantly differently depending on the unit. A preceptor could avoid the possible shame of breaking an unspoken rule by knowing this knowledge. The perception that they are back by their forerunners would be further strengthen as a result. In general, nurses perform better when they enjoy their work and have confidence in their coworkers.
Encourage a Sensible Balance Between Professional and Personal Life
Contrary to popular belief, it is important to urge new recruits to take good care of themselves while performing their job even though it is not require to discuss private information. Many brand-new nurses are so terrifie when they begin their jobs that they may be reluctant to inquire about lunchtime, restroom locations, or where they might get a drink of water for worry of seeming disinterest in the training material. Taking a new trainee on a tour of the facility and introducing them to the resources available to them should be one of the first things any outstanding preceptor does with them. If they have to employ a new nurse, encourage them to speak out. Less fortunate nurses do not create better ones.
Employ a Promising Training Approach
The trainee can strengthen and show that they understand by following a straightforward training plan like “see one, do one, teach one.” The preceptors of many new nurses discover that they are either given too much or not enough responsibility. Neither is ideal for letting the nurse practice new skills while having the underlying knowledge to support them. The new nurse receives comprehension, practice using the skill, and an assessment of their thorough understanding by being shown a skill, performing it, and then being aske to teach it. Nurses are now require by several hospitals to submit paperwork for each skill. The principle of “see one, do one, teach one” is a useful method for skill development and training.
Do Not Be Reluctant to Impart Precepting
Every new nurse is different, just like every preceptor is not create equal. A preceptor has the authority to seek a swap if they feel they cannot build a strong relationship with the new graduate nurse or vice versa. The training will probably not be as effective if connections between the preceptor and novice nurse are not built on mutual understanding. Similar to that, a nurse should respect the need for time off from teaching nurses if they have been overload with precepting. A preceptor who may be passionate about training would probably be more beneficial to a new nurse.
Be Receptive to the Views and Advice of New Nurses
Several nurses who have work in the same position for a long period assume the status of things without challenge. If a new nurse criticizes a programmer or system that appears unproductive or wasteful, it is important to remember that they are offering a new perspective. Even though there may be a tendency to judge the nurse as arrogant or idealistic, it is important to recognize the worth of a rookie nurse who is sufficiently commit to their profession that they are ready to critically analyze how to do better.
Conclusion
The most accomplish nurses would almost certainly attribute their success to a preceptor who acknowledge their abilities and encourage them to perform at their highest level. As long as they demonstrate a tactful and compassionate attitude that allows a new nurse to flourish, any nurse can serve as an excellent preceptor.