Undergraduate Practicum Preceptor Information

October 1, 2007

Dear Preceptor:

Thank you very much for accepting the preceptor role for a University of Southern Maine nursing student. This senior student is entering the last seven weeks of his/her student experience. We would like to give you a brief introduction via these few paragraphs and a link to a website with information specifically designed to assist you. We hope you will find this information helpful in working with the student, and encourage you to contact us personally at any time for more assistance.

The College of Nursing faculty believes that the preceptorship experience is a vital link in the successful transition and assimilation of students' theoretical learning with the realities of everyday nursing practice. It provides the culminating intensive clinical experience that is necessary for students to refine their practice within the safety net of a mentor. The preceptor works with the students on a one-to-one basis so that the student can learn the roles and responsibilities of clinical nursing within a particular practice arena. Working side by side with preceptors, students have the opportunity to critically examine and apply theory to patient care situations and increase their confidence and competence in nursing interventions. The intensive exposure to everyday practice enhances their in-depth understanding of the complex nursing role as well as improves their critical thinking and overall feeling of personal satisfaction. Receiving the professional guidance and nurturance from the preceptor also can provide a buffer to the difficult transition a beginning graduate faces when in the practice arena as a newly licensed professional nurse.

Preceptors mentor students by sharing their rich knowledge base and clinical problem-solving ideas. Role modeling, coaching, demonstration and dialogue are seen as preceptor behaviors that contribute to positive student outcomes. This role may bring additional personal benefits to the preceptors, such as enhanced role status, recognition of expert practice, increased job satisfaction and professional career advancement.

It is our sincere wish to be in communication with you and to assist in any way you might require. This following two pages of information gives you the answers to frequently asked questions but also includes several ways to access us. Please feel free to call or page us. We will be in touch when we know what your best time for contact will be.

Sincerely,

Jean Dvorak, Laurie Caton-Lemos and Carol Doane

For more information click on links below

For questions or comments, please contact us.

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