Preceptors

PURPOSE: This rule defines the utilization of preceptors. (1) Preceptors may be used as role models, mentors, and supervisors of students in practical nursing programs. (A) Preceptors do not replace faculty in the education of the student but serve to assist faculty and the student in achieving designated objectives of a nursing course. (B) Preceptors shall not be utilized in fundamentals of nursing or introductory nursing courses. (C) Preceptors shall supervise no more than two (2) students during any given shift. Supervision by a preceptor means that the preceptor is present and available to the student(s) in the clinical setting. (2) Each nursing program shall have written policies for the use of preceptors which incorporate the criteria listed in this rule. (3) Responsibilities of preceptors shall include: (A) Possess current license to practice as a registered professional or licensed practical nurse with at least one (1) year experience in the area of clinical specialty for which the preceptor is used; (B) Perform the responsibilities as determined by the nursing program; and (C) Provide written documentation to faculty regarding the student’s performance in relation to meeting designated course objectives. (4) Responsibilities of the nursing program faculty in regards to utilization of preceptors shall include: (A) Select the preceptor in collaboration with the clinical site; (B) Provide the preceptor with information as to the duties, roles, and responsibilities of the faculty, the student, and the preceptor including the communication processes; (C) Provide the preceptor a copy of the objectives of the course in which the student is enrolled and directions for assisting the student to meet objectives specific to the clinical experience; (D) Assume responsibility for each student’s final evaluation and the assigning of a performance rating or grade; (E) Be readily available to students and clinical preceptors during clinical learning experiences; and (F) Periodic meetings with the clinical preceptors and student(s) for the purpose of monitoring and evaluating learning experiences. AUTHORITY: section 335.036, RSMo Supp. 2021, and section 335.071, RSMo 2016.* This rule originally filed as 4 CSR 200-3.085. Original rule filed Aug. 6, 1998, effective Feb. 28, 1999. Moved to 20 CSR 2200-3.085, effective Aug. 28, 2006. Rescinded and readopted: Filed April 17, 2007, effective Dec. 30, 2007. Amended: Filed Jan. 11, 2013, effective July 30, 2013. Amended: Filed Feb. 9, 2018, effective Aug. 30, 2018. Amended: Filed Feb. 14, 2022, effective Aug. 30, 2022. *Original authority: 335.036, RSMo 1975, amended 1981, 1985, 1993, 1995, 1999, 2007, 2008, 2011, 2018, and 335.071, RSMo 1975, amended 1981, 1999.