Precepting a new graduate nurse is a rewarding but challenging responsibility. A preceptor is an experienced nurse who serves as a mentor, educator and role model, guiding a new nurse through the transition from student to professional. A strong preceptor helps shape a confident and competent nurse, ensuring safe and effective patient care. Here are helpful tips for successfully precepting a new nurse:
Set Clear Expectations
From the start, outline goals, responsibilities and performance expectations. As the preceptor you should clearly define the new nurse’s role within the healthcare team and explain expectations for clinical skills, documentation and patient interactions. Setting milestones for progress can help both the preceptor and nurse track development over time.
Provide Clinical Guidance
Developing essential clinical skills such as time management, prioritization and recognizing changes in patient conditions are critical in nursing. And as a preceptor, you can help new nurses refine those skills. You can encourage them to stay up-to-date with evidence-based practices and reinforce the importance of thorough documentation. Provide real-world case scenarios to help them develop strong clinical judgment and decision-making skills, and assist them in how to assess patients holistically, anticipate potential complications and intervene effectively.
Give Regular Feedback
Constructive and timely feedback helps a new nurse recognize strengths and areas for improvement. Ensure feedback is specific, actionable and based on observed behaviors. Use real-time feedback during clinical shifts to reinforce correct techniques and address mistakes promptly. Regularly schedule formal check-ins to track progress, set new goals, and discuss any challenges they may be facing.
Use a Gradual Approach to Independence
New nurses need time to build confidence and clinical judgment. Start with close supervision and gradually increase their autonomy as they demonstrate competence. Encourage the nurses you work with to take the lead on routine procedures and decision-making while ensuring they have a safety net for guidance.
Precepting a new graduate nurse requires dedication and strong mentorship. Your support as a preceptor leaves a lasting impact on their career and the quality of patient care they provide. At Baton Rouge General we have development opportunities for new nurses and more experienced nurses to grow their skills, including preceptor workshops. For information on these opportunities contact one of our nurse recruiters at 985-606-9061.