Preceptors' perceptions of support, commitment to the preceptor role, and preferred incentives: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

AimThis study aimed to explore the perceptions of preceptors regarding the support they receive in the preceptorship role, their commitment to the role, and the incentives that are important to them. BackgroundNurse preceptors in Ghana face numerous challenges in performing their roles as preceptors. Preceptors require support from hospitals and nursing schools to make the preceptorship experience more rewarding for both students and preceptors. However, the type of support that preceptors require and their commitment to the preceptor role have been scarcely investigated in Ghana. DesignThis was a quantitative descriptive cross-sectional study. MethodsAn online survey that incorporated three questionnaires and a demographic information section was used to collect data from 154 preceptors in four hospitals in the northern part of Ghana. Data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) for Windows, version 26. Descriptive statistics, correlations, and multiple linear regression were used to analyze the data. ResultsPreceptors reported high levels of support in the preceptor role and perceived themselves to be highly committed to the role. Preceptors identified preceptor training, continuing education opportunities, and textbooks on effective preceptorship as the three most important incentives to them. No associations were found between perceived commitment and demographic characteristics of participants. ConclusionsAlthough many preceptors in Ghana feel satisfied with the support they receive to perform their role as preceptors, a significant number of preceptors do not feel adequately supported. Preceptor support should be geared more towards the professional development of preceptors.