The 1-minute preceptor to improve diagnostic reasoning in a primary care nurse practitioner residency program

Background: The One-Minute Preceptor (OMP) model to teach diagnostic reasoning and Reporter, Interpreter, Manager, and Educator (RIME) framework to measure progress are used in physician training. Little is known about the use of these tools in nurse practitioner (NP) training. Local problem: Precepting NP trainees at the Veterans Affairs (VA) is not standardized. A standardized approach to precepting NP residency trainees using the OMP model and RIME scoring was evaluated for improvement and helpfulness. Methods: A quality-improvement project with two Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycles were conducted over a 12-week period. Mean RIME scores, preceptor self-efficacy, and use of teaching skills were measured preintervention and postintervention. Data were analyzed using a paired sample t-test and descriptive statistics. Interventions: A convenience sample of preceptors and trainees was recruited from a large VA medical center. A 1-hour workshop educated preceptors with role playing and return demonstrations on OMP techniques and RIME scoring. The teachings were applied to standardize precepting and assess diagnostic reasoning. Trainee self-scoring and results triggered conversations to fulfil the identified gaps. Results: Mean RIME scores improved (1.62 [0.17] vs. 2.23 [0.38], p < .001) post 12-week intervention. Mean RIME scores improved between PDSA cycle 1 and cycle 2 (2.07 [0.25] vs. 2.48 [0.39], p < .001). Preceptors (91%) and trainees (100%) found the OMP model and RIME framework helpful. Conclusion: Use of the OMP improved diagnostic reasoning in NP trainees. The OMP and RIME framework provided standardization of precepting and trainee discussions on improvements.