It's common for new nurses to need guidance from their preceptor and staff in order to effectively acclimate to their new work environment. However as a preceptor you are more than a mentor, you’re a critial resource to help your new teammate conquer the challenges of being a nurse.
Qualities of a Nurse Mentor
Recall your first day as a nurse. It can be exciting and scary to be responsible for your patients. For most, it can take a little while to feel comfortable and confident on the job. A good mentor can be a big help. Consider a few of the qualities of an effective mentor:
- Being a Good Communicator. This tops the list for nurse mentors.
- Remember to give clear and concise directions
- Sense of Humor: Working as a nurse is stressful. Being new on the job is even more nerve-wracking. When appropriate, a little humor can decrease tension.
- Accessibility: You don’t have to be available 24/7 to the nurses you’re mentoring, accessibility is important. Make sure the nurse you’re mentoring knows they can ask you questions and feels comfortable coming to you.
Effective Mentoring Tips
Mentoring is not something taught in school. But it does take certain skill to be an effective mentor. Consider some of the following suggestions:
Share your experiences: There is more to nursing than what is learned in the textbooks. Some aspects of nursing go beyond medication calculation or interpretation of test results. By sharing your personal experiences you can help a new nurse understand various aspects of the job that are not necessarily taught in the classroom.
Offer praise and constructive feedback: Feedback is important, so if possible take a few minutes at the end of your shifts to offer any feedback. A new nurse needs to know what he/she is doing correctly, and a little praise goes a long way. In addition, constructive criticism needs to be included so a new hire understands where improvements are needed. This feedback should be specific and with recommendations on steps for improvement.
Set expectations: It’s helpful to set clear expectations and goals for new nurses. For example, if you need to complete a clinical competency checklist or orientation paperwork, make sure you communicate what is expected and the timeframe it needs to be done.