Preceptor perceptions of new graduate nurse readiness for practice.

Preparing nursing graduates for entry into practice is a priority for academic and healthcare institutions. To effectively prepare competent entry-level practitioners, it is important to understand clinical agency expectations. Most clinical agencies utilize some form of a precepted orientation experience for new graduate nurses. The purpose of this study was to examine preceptors' perceptions of the competence of new graduate nurses. Data analysis indicated several areas of weakness in new graduate nurses' clinical skills. This information can be used by academic nursing programs to revise clinical experiences to better prepare graduates for entry into practice. Findings can also be utilized to assist healthcare institutions with designing orientation programs for new graduate nurses. Suggestions are provided to help train preceptors for their important role. It is essential, particularly in today's complex healthcare environment, that strategies be explored to facilitate success of the emerging nursing workforce.