Being a preceptor—A Nordic qualitative study

Abstract

Positive preceptor experiences enhance learning and even affect the decisions of students to remain in nursing. In light of this, nurse managers have a responsibility, besides maintaining staff competence, to assess whether preceptors live up to their professional obligations. The aim of this Nordic qualitative study was to gain a deeper understanding of the perceived experiences of preceptorship used to support undergraduate student nurses during their clinical education. Data was collected through narrative interviews with 31 preceptors in Finland and Sweden before being analysed using a hermeneutical approach. Preceptorship is all about teaching in a supportive environment with ethical dimensions uniting theory and praxis. A caring relationship is essential and the basis for student learning and development. The preceptors emphasise a caring relationship as the foundation for student learning. Moreover, preceptorship is an ethical issue, a responsibility that should be recognised by all stakeholders. The findings suggest that preceptorship should be examined from a new perspective. The ethical dimension must be recognised and linked to the further education of preceptors. Nurse managers are in a key position to lead for change.