A preceptor by definition is a teacher or instructor, but the role of a nurse preceptor goes far beyond that definition. A good preceptor is a teacher and a mentor, a role model, leader, influencer, evaluator, and protector to the new nurse. "The preceptor is instrumental to the new nurse to successfully link nursing theory and classroom learning to application in a clinical setting." Lori is all that and more to me as a new nurse.
My prayers to have a preceptor just like Lori were realized the first day I worked with her. We worked together as teacher and student as she observed and let me perform tasks under her watchful eye. She is patient, compassionate, fair, and sensitive to the needs of patients and to student nurses. She has the skill, knowledge, and experience and most importantly is an effective communicator. She helped me as a student nurse to transfer clinical knowledge to bedside nursing. She helped me with decision-making and problem-solving, encouraging the importance of critical thinking. She made me a part of patient and family interactions and taught me what it means to be a patient advocate. She taught me to be calm, strong and reassuring for the patient and family in emotional situations. She provided positive and constructive feedback. She taught me that everyone makes mistakes and that every mistake, every error, must be taken as an opportunity to learn and to grow. She was always professional and made me feel comfortable as I practiced new assignments and interacted with patients. Her sense of humor was a source of comfort at appropriate times.
I am confident that I chose the right profession and am on my way to becoming the nurse God wants me to be. I thank KershawHealth and Lori for helping me with this new, exciting career. Lori helped make the difficult transition from 'student nurse' to 'real nurse' a better journey for me. No amount of school, study, or clinical time prepares us for the real world of nursing. Lori is a true DAISY Nurse and I hope she knows how truly special she is!