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Weekly Q&A: Overcoming preceptor program challenges

HCPro's Weekly Update on the ANCC Magnet Recognition Program®*, October 10, 2006

This week, a reader seeks advice about overcoming challenges in her organization's preceptor program. Read the response below from our advisor, Elise I. Gropper, PhD, APRN,BC, CPHQ, president, Gropper & Associates, Inc., a national healthcare consulting firm in Coral Springs, FL.

Q: We are developing our preceptor program and are receiving feedback from our preceptors-in-training. They report that one of their biggest challenges is ensuring that RNs understand what tasks may be delegated and how to oversee this delegation correctly and appropriately. Do others struggle with this process?

A: Delegation is a complex process. First, you must ensure that RNs within your organization are only delegating those tasks that may be delegated according to the individual state's Nurse Practice Act. These tasks should be reviewed with all nurses during their orientation.

Policies and procedures should be developed to govern the delegation process for RNs. Delegation is a skill that requires education and practice, and these skills should be taught as part of all nurses' orientation, as well as during preceptor training programs. Critical thinking skills regarding delegation can be further developed through unit-based role modeling by nurse leaders and by case study reviews of the delegation process.

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