| Learning Objective #1: Discuss factors that contribute to preceptor and preceptee satisfaction with preceptorship experiences | |||
| Learning Objective #2: Discuss best ways to gain evidence of preceptors’ and preceptees’ perceptions of preceptorships |
Questionnaires were sent to 189 preceptors who had participated in the Northern Health Preceptor Education program (October 2003 and September 2004) and 159 newly hired nurses (preceptees). Two instruments were used to assess preceptor and preceptor satisfaction: (1) Preceptorship Satisfaction/ Preceptor's Scale and (2) Preceptorship Satisfaction/ Preceptee's Scale. The preceptees were 23-56 years old (mean 36.5) and worked in different health settings across Northern BC. Approximately one third (34.6%) had graduated from the local university's nursing program. Respondents represented different specialties in nursing; almost half (46.2%) reported that the type of nursing included several clinical areas. The preceptees' mean work experience in nursing was 5.6 years, but for over half (53.8%) the work experience was one year or less. The duration of the preseptorship varied enormously, from 4 days to three months. The preceptors were 23-61 years old (mean 47.1). One-third had a bachelor's degree (32.7%). Preceptors had a mean work experience of 20.7 years, and had been preceptors for 7.9 years on average.
Statistical analysis reveals that both preceptors and preceptees were satisfied overall with their preceptorship experience, but the preceptees evaluated the relationship more positively than did the preceptors. The preceptors were more critical than were the preceptees of the feedback and depth of questions asked. The presentation will identify further similarities and differences, along with implications of using matched instruments to assess preceptor/preceptee satisfaction.