Consensus on topics for preceptor training

Abstract

Background: Nurses and students find the clinical environment complex. Preceptors are ideal in supporting students in clinical facilities. Training of preceptors is increasingly important as many counties require certification. Preceptors use a different skillset than clinical nurses to support students and should be trained in how to support students in the clinical learning environment. However, there is no consensus on the topics within a training programme on which preceptors should be trained. Aim: This article reports on the topics South African and international experts agreed on. Design: Thirty-two purposively selected national and international clinical nurse experts were invited via email to participate in the Delphi technique. Between seven and 12 experts responded electronically per Delphi round. During round four, 70% of experts agreed on the topics. Findings: The experts added 27 items and reached consensus on 19 topics. From the 19 topics, seven competencies were formulated. Conclusion: Insight is given into the topics related to competencies on which preceptors should be trained. Training preceptors on these topics may reduce their stress and improve the accompaniment of students while contributing to better-prepared nurses for clinical practice.

Keywords

• Clinical accompaniment
• Preceptor
• Training topics
• Preceptor outcomes
• Preceptor-training programme
• Preceptorship