The one-minute preceptor model for nurse practitioners: A pilot study of a preceptor training program

Preceptors play a vital role in nurse practitioners' (NPs) clinical education. Based on Bandura's self-efficacy theory, improvement of NPs' self-efficacy is likely to lead to positive changes in behavior. Thus, it can enhance their willingness to precept and increase readiness for a preceptor role. The aims of this pilot study were to develop an NP preceptor training program and to evaluate the program following implementation. The one-minute preceptor (OMP) model has been used among other health care disciplines and can promote effective and efficient communication. In the first phase of this pilot study, an NP preceptor training program to teach NPs about the OMP model was created. For the second phase of this project, a pilot test of the program was implemented and evaluated. Nine clinical NPs participated in the study. Surveys were administered at three different points to determine whether the participants' self-efficacy as a preceptor and willingness to become a preceptor improved after participation. Results demonstrated that NP preceptor training improved multiple aspects of participants' self-efficacy as NP preceptors and positively affected their decision to participate in preceptorship.