Date of Award

Fall 12-20-2012

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Respiratory Therapy

First Advisor

Douglas Gardenhire

Second Advisor

Robert Murray

Third Advisor

Ralph Zimmerman

Abstract

Preceptorship is the ideal method for teaching students in the healthcare environment. Due to a shortage of staffing, respiratory care students are not often assigned with preceptors, rather they are assigned with respiratory care staff that has minimal to no formal training in education. Therefore, students may not receive appropriate role involvement, decision-making and patient skills experience. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to examine the current methods of preceptor training and evaluate the need for a preceptor-training program according to the education coordinators and respiratory care directors/managers. METHODS Data were acquired through a descriptive survey. The survey was formulated and sent using the online survey generator Zoomerang. The survey was submitted to a convenience sample of department directors, department education coordinators, and staff at clinical affiliates associated with Georgia State University. RESULTS: Thirty-six participants were surveyed with a response rate of 67%. Forty-eight percent were a respiratory director/manager, 35% education coordinator and 9% supervisor. Eighty-six percent of participants work in not-for-profit hospitals. Seventy-nine percent of participants believe there is a need for a standardized preceptor-training program, however, only 64% reported that preceptors receive training prior to receiving students. CONCLUSION: There is a need for a standardized preceptor-training program for respiratory therapists to improve the quality of clinical education provided to respiratory therapy students.

DOI

https://doi.org/10.57709/3500927

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