Using Training Needs Assessment to Develop a Nurse Preceptor–Centered Training Program

BACKGROUND: Studies reveal that most nurse preceptor preparation programs do not meet nurse preceptors' training needs. This study thus developed a nurse preceptor-centered training program (NPCTP) in Taiwan. METHOD: The ADDIE model was used for the instructional design. On the basis of the nurse preceptors' training needs assessment, the research team developed the NPCTP. Content was adopted from the authentic experiences of preceptors and new graduate nurses (NGNs) using interview data to make 81 videos with computer avatars and 10 live actor films. Each course was taught as nine instructional events. The NPCTP was evaluated using reflection quizzes, preceptors' self-evaluations, NGNs' evaluations, and focus group interviews. RESULTS: The NPCTP enhanced preceptors' clinical teaching behaviors and had a positive influence on NGNs. The NGN evaluation was even better than the preceptors' self-evaluation. CONCLUSION: This article provides the what and how for an NPCTP in Taiwan. J Contin Nurs Educ. 2017;48(5):220-229.