Preceptor Story...Refreshing

19 Because all of us have heard more than our share of horror stories from new nurses who are drowning on orientation and from seasoned nurses who are sick to death of the attitudes and audacity of some newbies, I just wanted to share my experience.

I'm a newbie nurse (my second career) and consider myself very lucky to have been chosen for very coveted position in an emergency services fellowship program. I will have 6 months to 1 year orientation with tons of educational opportunities and certification training (ACLS & PALS within 6 months and TNCC & CEN within 1 or 2 yrs)

My good news is that I my preceptor. I've heard that she was chosen carefully to match my personality and learning style. She encourages me when there's a new procedure or puzzling patient, and then pushes me to take it on. I thrive on that kind of teaching. She sets goals with me in the morning, and even if we don't accomplish them, we take a moment to talk about how the day went otherwise and what I've learned. She gives me plenty of opportunities to prioritize and critically think. She asks me questions and listens to my answers. She takes time to answer MY questions. I like that kind of teaching also.

I'm not liking my feet right now, but I'm LOVING my job. Mostly everyone I've met has a great attitude and it makes for an amazing team of colleagues. Even the other nurses are filled with tips and advice when I need help with something.

I'm very fortunate to have this network of support. I think all hospitals should incorporate these kinds of residency/fellowship programs that foster employee engagment. Nurses who support and help one another, have a voice in management, and feel valued as an employee AND a person will surely lead to higher retention rates and that, of course, helps boost the public's perception of us. So I end this comment with a huge THANK YOU to my preceptor!
Excellent! Such a good experience for you, and when you are ready to take on the role of preceptor yourself you will have a wonderful role model to follow! I wish more facilities would embrace this level of thought when it comes to matching orientees.Glad to hear you are having such a good experience.

i'm thrilled to hear that someone likes and appreciates their preceptor!

That's so great! Do you know when your hospital is taking new grads again? I'll totally move to Virginia for that kind of program! Can you PM me the name of the hospital?

Thanks for sharing such a wonderful experience!!

So glad you love your preceptor!! And kudos to her for doing such a fine job! And congrats to you on your position!!