Date of Conferral

2-18-2025

Degree

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

School

Nursing

Advisor

Mary Garner

Abstract

Precepting is crucial in successfully onboarding nurses in healthcare organizations, yet challenges remain in ensuring effective preceptor development. Well-structured preceptor programs contribute to consistent and safe nursing practices, enhance job satisfaction and competency among new nurses, and improve preceptor effectiveness while minimizing turnover. This quality improvement Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) project evaluated a structured nurse preceptor program's structure, process, and outcomes, focusing on its impact on clinical and critical thinking skills development through enhanced training and support. A key gap in understanding the program’s effectiveness was the lack of outcome data. This study explored participants’ perceptions of the preceptor program’s framework, processes, and results one-year post-implementation. Data collection included a survey with both quantitative and qualitative components, assessing satisfaction, policy clarity, and the utility of the preceptor selection tool. Preliminary findings revealed a 60% overall satisfaction rate, with identified areas for improvement such as clearer policies, improved communication, and enhanced selection tools. Addressing these concerns can lead to continuous program enhancements, fostering a supportive environment for new nurses while strengthening preceptor effectiveness. Ultimately, these improvements can drive social change by boosting new graduate nurses’ confidence and competence in delivering high-quality, equitable patient care.

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