Rethinking Orientation: How Prioritizing Preceptors Improves Outcomes for All.

Abstract

The evolving healthcare landscape has increased demands on nurse preceptors. Redesigning preceptor programs to prioritize their needs can reduce burden, improve patient outcomes, and enhance onboarding. A tiered preceptor development model expands the preceptor workforce while fostering accountability, leadership, and collaboration. Analysis reveals that when leadership and education resources are heavily directed toward supporting preceptors, outcomes improve across the organization, for patients, preceptees, and preceptors alike.