Hallmarks of Unsafe Practice

In Brief During a preceptorship experience, certain students do not progress in their learning at the same rate as others and may engage in unsafe practice. Twenty-two preceptors working with fourth year baccalaureate nursing students for 340 hours in a final practicum were interviewed. This study reaffirmed that early identification and intervention of unsafe practice are critical and consist of red flags regarding knowledge, attitudes, skills, and professionalism. The authors report a study affirming that early identification of unsafe practice of new graduates by preceptorships is critical to ensure timely and effective intervention.