Challenges and Strategies for Building and Maintaining Effective Preceptor-Preceptee Relationships among Nurses

Journal Title: Sultan Qaboos University Medical Journal - Year 2014, Vol 14, Issue 4

Abstract

Objectives: Tis study aimed to determine the challenges encountered and strategies used by nurse preceptors to build effective professional relationships during the preceptorship of fnal year nursing students. Methods: Tis study was conducted in November 2012 at the College of Nursing in Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman. A qualitative research design consisting of focus group discussions was used to investigate the challenges that preceptors encounter and the strategies that they use to build effective relationships with preceptees. A total of 21 preceptors from Sultan Qaboos University Hospital participated in the study as part of a training workshop for nurse preceptors. Te interviews were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim and thematically analysed. Results: Te main challenges faced by preceptors included discrepancies in applying theory to practice; lack of trust; lack of time, and perceived lack of knowledge. Te effective strategies identifed by the preceptors to be used in building a healthy preceptor-preceptee relationship were proper orientation; effective communication; preparation for complex situations; appreciation and acknowledgment; positive feedback; assurance of support; spending time together; knowing preceptors personally; giving breaks, and encouraging self-commitment. Conclusion: Preceptors should be encouraged to identify challenges that hinder the building of effective relationships with preceptees early during their preceptorship. Te incorporation of appropriate and evidenced-based strategies, such as those identifed in this study, can transform the preceptorship experience into one that is fulflling for both preceptors and preceptees. Tis may lead to greater job satisfaction, personal and professional growth as well as higher self-esteem levels for preceptors and the realisation of clinical objectives for preceptees.

Authors and Affiliations

Gerald A. Matua| Departments of Fundamentals & Administration , College of Nursing, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman, Vidya Seshan| Departments of Maternal & Child Health, College of Nursing, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman, Raman Savithri| Departments of Maternal & Child Health, College of Nursing, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman, Dennis C. Fronda| Departments of Fundamentals & Administration , College of Nursing, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman

Keywords

Related Articles

Fatigue in Pregnancy: The validity and reliability of the Farsi Multidimensional Assessment of Fatigue scale

Objectives: Fatigue is a common discomfort experienced during pregnancy and may contribute to severe labour pain and postpartum depression. This study aimed to translate the Multidimensional Assessment of Fatigue (MAF) s...

Child Maltreatment Types and effects: Series of six cases from a university hospital in Oman

Child maltreatment (CM) is common worldwide, and can take many forms. It may even endanger the child’s life, especially when younger children are the victims. CM affects the child’s quality of life and consequently...

Download PDF file
  • EP ID EP14506
  • DOI -
  • Views 346
  • Downloads 11

How To Cite

Gerald A. Matua, Vidya Seshan, Raman Savithri, Dennis C. Fronda (2014). Challenges and Strategies for Building and Maintaining Effective Preceptor-Preceptee Relationships among Nurses. Sultan Qaboos University Medical Journal, 14(4), 530-536. https://www.europub.co.uk/articles/-A-14506