Developing a Nursing Precptor Program

[jessjenkins11885, BSN]

I am part of a Unit Based Council and we have been tasked with developing a Nursing Preceptor Program for new grads and new hires. The unit that I work on is a critical care unit that consist of 8 Med-surg ICU beds, 8 Neuro-ICU beds and 14 step-down beds. The hospital is a very busy hospital in the downtown area of a big city. The preceptor program that my unit currently has in place does not set clear guidelines for the preceptor or goals for the new hire. We are looking at developing a program that is structured so that everyone who goes through it will come out prepared and set up for success. I am looking to see what types of tools and programs other nurses have used. Thank you for any assistance.

[nutella, MSN, RN]

I am not a specialist for curriculum development but here are my 2 cents..

First I would think about a theoretical framework (nursing theory) because after all it is nursing. For example Benner's novice to expert, Schon's reflective practice or whatever the team decides.

After that I would not re-invent the wheel. Look here for more information:

Essentials of Critical Care Orientation (ECCO) 3.