Relationships between formalized preceptor orientation and student outcomes

Competently prepared nurses are expected to provide clinical care and advocate for client care. Preceptors are an important aspect of the solution for assisting student nurses to bridge the gaps between classroom and practice. Findings from this literature review found that formal orientation, employer support, and relationships with educational settings enhance preceptor roles. While the literature supplies many opinions and ‘how to’ papers, the body of research that has investigated relationships between preceptor characteristics, preceptor orientation, and student outcomes is still limited.