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CS165
Development of an ICU Preceptor Program based on the AACN Synergy Model for Patient Care
By: Shelley Welch, RN, BSN, CCRN & Wally Womack;Trinity Mother Frances Hospital and Clinics, Tyler, TX
For further information, please contact: SSTAGE@AOL.COM
Purpose: To establish the effectiveness of a preceptor program based on the AACN Synergy Model for Patient Care for retention of graduate nurses and to prepare new ICU and graduate nurses to confidently care for ICU patients.
Description: Evaluation of a current successful preceptor program revealed orientation of new ICU, as well as, graduate nurses to the ICU were lacking in some critical advocacy skills . The preceptors were excellent at orienting new staff to the clinical inquiry and clinical judgment component of ICU care but lacked a framework for teaching the sometimes intangible skills and competencies. After review of the current program, a new critical care preceptor program was developed by a group of ICU nurses based on the AACN Synergy Model for Patient Care. A list of ICU competencies was formulated into stages from novice to competent. Each area of orientation focus was applied to the Synergy Model. Tools for daily and biweekly evaluation were revised to reflect the Synergy Model. All ICU staff members were required to attend a training class to introduce this program, and review communication techniques. All staff are encouraged to be invested in the success of the new hires. The preceptor was matched with a preceptee based on the 8 identified nursing characteristics. Ongoing dialogue of the preceptee’s daily progress was facilitated by the preceptor and critical care educator. Biweekly growth and development of each preceptee was discussed during a preceptor/preceptee conference. Discussion during biweekly conferences included progress toward learning outcomes and feedback for improvement, as well as establishing plans for successful accomplishment of goals based on the Synergy Model’s levels of competency. Opportunities were extended for the preceptee to focus on the next level of learning goals.
A competencies notebook was developed with identifiable goals set for each new segment. The book was arranged from basic to complicated critical care with expected timelines for completion. The charge nurse, as well as the ICU educator, assisted with patient assignments for the preceptee based on learning needs and attainment of competencies . Flexible time guidelines were established to complete all competencies.
As part of our healthy work environment commitment, a recognition ceremony was organized by the unit director, ICU educator, and preceptors for the preceptees and their families, in honor of completion of the program. Preceptees family members are acknowledged for the support they provide while our new ICU nurses complete their training, ending with a tour of the ICU.
Outcome: Our unit was able to successfully adapt the AACN Synergy Model for Patient Care into an effective preceptor program for our ICU. Each ICU nurse has taken on the responsibility for the success of the new graduates. The first group of new nurses completed the preceptor program based on the Synergy Model in May of 2007. Success was measured by a nursing satisfaction tool in which we are able to show better trained , more confident graduate nurses in our ICU when compared to our previous program. Evaluation of the program's impact continues with our second group of orientees. Enhancements and revisions based on one year's analysis of feedback will be implemented after completion of data collection. Future success of the program will require ongoing evaluation of the overall impact of the Synergy Model on nursing care. Outcomes under consideration for measurement are patient safety , nurse competence and satisfaction , and nurse retention.
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