Finding a Preceptor?

[KristinWW]

There is a hospital at which I would love to do a clinical rotation - they are known for their expertise in the field which I wish to go into. My program coordinator has already okayed the hospital for my last rotation, but it's up to me to find a preceptor. How do I go about this? Thank you!

[Katnip, RN]

You might want to start with the nurse manager of the department where you want to work. Ask if there is anyone there trained and willing to precept a student.

[KristinWW]

You might want to start with the nurse manager of the department where you want to work. Ask if there is anyone there trained and willing to precept a student.

Thanks, and I'm trying! I understand the nurses are too busy, and I wonder what's in it for THEM. I see the benefits to the students, but what's the benefit to the nurse?

[Katnip, RN]

Well some facilities pay preceptors a bit more while they are precepting. Most preceptors (in my experience anyway) do it because they enjoy teaching and mentoring.

[KristinWW]

Well some facilities pay preceptors a bit more while they are precepting. Most preceptors (in my experience anyway) do it because they enjoy teaching and mentoring.

I know many preceptors enjoy, but I've heard at some facilities that ratios don't change and the nurses are expected to teach AND keep daily workload. I really wonder how they do it, and what is the incentive for them? I just see the nurses running ragged daily, and I would love them to be compensated if they are teaching as well!

[orrnlori, RN]

I do it because I love it, if I have an engaged and attentive student. When someone is just standing there looking bored, it's a pain. We aren't paid to precept, what a novel idea!

[KristinWW]

I do it because I love it, if I have an engaged and attentive student. When someone is just standing there looking bored, it's a pain. We aren't paid to precept, what a novel idea!

Could you move to Florida? PUUULLLEEEAASSSE?