Why is PreceptorLink® the best preceptor-matching company?
It’s The “PreceptorLink® difference.” - Experienced, nurse practitioner-led team - Fast placement- most within 1-3 days - Unmatched expertise - Extensive preceptor network - Proven success rate - Dedicated support. We complete paperwork for students and preceptors - Quality - Our goal is to provide quality clinical education Lynn McComas, DNP, ANP-C, is the founder and owner of PreceptorLink®, is dedicated to students and preceptors, and is actively involved in the business. She is a seasoned NP who knows and cares about the profession...because this is her profession! She is actively working with nursing organizing bodies, schools and faculty, and decision-makers in the profession. Her doctoral studies at Duke focused on finding solutions to the preceptor problem for NPs. She continued her studies with a focus on business through the Goldman Sachs Small Business program. As an NP-entrepreneur, Lynn understands the business and clinical sides of this issue. The PreceptorLink®️ team are your experts in preceptor matching for APRNs and NPs. PreceptorLink® has been matching NP preceptors since 2014, so we have the experience, connections, and know-how to get the job done. We are here for the long haul because we want to work toward positive change in the profession. Contact PreceptorLink today!
0 Comments
So, you've set your sights on becoming an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP), and now you need to make the important school choice. Good for you for looking at your options. It’s a very important question. Here’s your critical next step: Picking the right program/school. Let's face it. There are hundreds of options out there, and it can feel like wandering through a clinical labyrinth. But fear not fellow future NP colleges! I'm here to equip you with the map and compass you need to make an informed decision.
First things first: Consider your "must-haves." What learning format suits your lifestyle? Do you crave the camaraderie of on-campus classes, or does online flexibility better fit your busy schedule? Does the program offer your preferred specialty, like cardiology or neurology? Remember, this is an investment in your future, so choose a program that aligns with your aspirations and learning style. Here are some key areas to investigate: Clinical Placements: This is where the rubber meets the road. ACNP programs must provide supervised clinical placements in actual acute care settings, not just clinics or outpatient facilities. Remember, you're training to manage critically ill patients in fast-paced environments. Dig deeper:
Faculty Credentials and Support: Your professors play a crucial role in shaping your ACNP expertise. Make sure they hold current clinical practice experience and possess relevant specializations. A faculty deeply ingrained in the acute care world can offer invaluable guidance and share real-world scenarios. And make sure you will have access to faculty. Support services, such as academic advising, tutoring, and career counseling, are essential components of a supportive educational environment. Curriculum: The curriculum should serve as a detailed map, guiding students beyond theory to the practical skills necessary for the acute care setting. A well-rounded curriculum encompasses pathophys, pharm, and health assessment, and it integrates specialized courses focusing on acute and critical care management. Personally, I love programs that include in-person hands-on actually held at the educational institution. These are often referred to as OSCEs, which stands for “Objective Structured Clinical Examination.” OSCEs may require a trip to your university, but it's a great way to practice and demonstrate your clinical skills in a standardized, safe, clinical scenario. Embrace and welcome this opportunity! Accreditation: This might seem obvious, but accreditation by a recognized organization like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) ensures your program meets rigorous quality standards. Don't settle for anything less – your future career and patient safety depend on it. Financial Aid and Scholarship Opportunities: Let's be honest, these programs aren't cheap. Explore financial aid options, scholarships, and loan programs offered by the institution and external organizations. If you are in the military, check out how that might benefit you. Remember, investing in your education is investing in your future earning potential. Beyond the checklist: Consider the program's culture and values. Do they resonate with your own? Look for a supportive environment that fosters collaboration, critical thinking, and a commitment to evidence-based practice. Don't underestimate the power of feeling comfortable and valued during your educational journey. Outcomes: A Measure of Success Finally, program outcomes, such as graduation rates, board certification pass rates through ACCN, and employment statistics, offer a lens through which to gauge the program’s effectiveness. High pass rates and strong employment outcomes can indicate a program’s success in preparing students for the real-world demands of the acute care setting. A message from our preceptors: At PreceptorLink®, we help place Acute Care NP students every day. One complaint we regularly hear from ACNP preceptors is that Acute Care Nurse Practitioner students do much better if they have experience in an acute care setting like an ICU or critical care unit. They report that the students who really struggle are the ones who don’t have this background. While not every school requires ICU experience as entry criteria, our preceptors strongly advise at least 2+ years in a true critical care ICU setting. This will also help you know whether this is your passion! Good advice all the way around. Remember, choosing your ACNP program is a personal decision. Take your time, research thoroughly, and ask all the questions. Trust your gut and choose wisely, and you'll find the program that prepares you to excel in the dynamic world of acute care. Now go forth, conquer that educational maze, and emerge a confident, compassionate ACNP ready to make a real difference in the lives of critically ill patients! Also, as a fellow NP, I understand the excitement and challenges you face. Feel free to reach out if you have any further questions--I'm here to support you every step of the way! About the Author: Lynn McComas, DNP, ANP-C, is an experienced nurse practitioner and an expert on the topic of precepting. She has held many leadership positions in nurse practitioner organizations. It was while attending her local CANP chapter meetings that she frequently witnessed students begging for preceptors, and she thought, “If we paid preceptors, I’ll bet more would be willing!” That is how the concept of PreceptorLink® was born. Determined to make a difference in “the Preceptor Problem, Lynn went on to obtain her Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) at the esteemed Duke University. At Duke, every assignment, including her final Capstone, was on finding solutions to the preceptor problem. Her final project was the development of “The Preceptor Playbook: A Checklist and Templates for Precepting Nurse Practitioner Students.” Lynn has presented and done poster presentations at AANP and other conferences on the subject of precepting and finding Solutions to the Preceptor Problem for NPs. By Lynn McComas, DNP, ANP-C NP and APRN students, did you know that you can use a Compact State License (CSL) to help you find a preceptor? A compact nursing state refers to the Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC). Basically, it allows license reciprocity for RNs and LPNs to practice in other compact states. For NP, APRN, and RN students, this can open up options for other states where they can do clinicals. You do have to apply to get a CSL in most states, although some states do it automatically, so check with your state’s Board of Nursing (BON) for specific requirements. Check out the NLC website to see the most recent map. Here is a picture of the most recent Compact State Licenses, effective March 25, 2024.
So, if you are an NP student, check it out. Maybe it’s the perfect time to stay with a friend, a relative, or even an Airbnb just so you can get that clinical rotation done! We’re sorry it’s so hard for students, but this may open up another channel for you to find a preceptor. Keep on learning, everyone!
The PreceptorLink® Difference At PreceptorLink®, with nearly a decade of experience in preceptor matching, we go beyond simply connecting you with preceptors. We believe in QUALITY. For our NP profession to continue to have positive outcomes, we must ensure quality education. Our goal is to match quality students with quality preceptors to develop quality clinicians. Our founder, Lynn McComas, DNP, ANP-C, has leveraged her extensive experience and contacts as an NP to create our business, educate our team, and design our tech-enabled match-making App. We want to not only connect students with qualified preceptors but also equip them to make the most of this crucial learning phase. We also quant to provide education to help support preceptors. If you need a preceptor, want to become a preceptor, or have a burning question about the nurse practitioner profession, we’re here to help! Lynn and The PreceptorLink® team are experts in the area of precepting and the NP profession. Check out our App, review our How It Works page, or reach out to us at 888-418-6620. www.PreceptorLink.com By Lynn McComas, DNP, ANP-C As a longtime nurse practitioner, I frequently hear the question: “Should I become a PMHNP or an FNP? I just don’t know.” Yes, a psych mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) versus a family nurse practitioner (FNP). Both are great professions, but very different. So, let's talk about some of those differences.
Becoming a Provider: A Big Step First and foremost, consider whether becoming a provider is the right fit for you. Transitioning from registered nurse (RN) to provider is a significant shift with increased responsibility. You'll be directing care and making diagnoses. Self-reflection is crucial to ensure this path aligns with your aspirations, abilities, and your personality. Once you’re certain that being a PROVIDER is a good fit, then let's move on! ✅ Matching Your Passion to Your Path As you likely know, an FNP can prescribe some psych medications, but if Psych really is your thing ✅, if you love Psych ✅, if those are “your people” ✅, I would encourage you to get your PMHNP. On the other hand, if psych isn’t really your thing, if you're more of a generalist, and you like the idea of seeing a variety of things and taking care of a lot of different kinds of patients, a little bit of everything, then perhaps being an FNP is a better fit. PMHNP Preceptor Experience: Varied Opinions Do you need experience as a psych RN to become a PMHNP? While I've heard preceptors give different responses to this question, most recommend that you have psych experience either as an RN or in a related field. This will help ensure that you know this population really is who you want to spend your career caring for. But just the other day, I spoke with a PMHNP who said she preferred students with no psych experience so she could “shape them.” However, the majority of our preceptors recommend having some professional psych experience. FNPs Working in Psych: Yes or No? What about being an FNP and working in Psych? Yes, as an FNP, you can prescribe psych medications, and in primary care, you will likely prescribe some psych meds. But we do want to try to stay within our scope of practice. If you really love psych, become a PMHNP. Many of our FNP preceptors have decided to become dual certified as both an FNP and PMHNP. Diverse Work Environments for PMHNPs PMHNPs work in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Inpatient settings can include locked psychiatric facilities, skilled nursing facilities, correctional institutions, and residential treatment programs. Outpatient settings encompass mental health services in clinical settings. Patients often transition between these settings during their care journey. The Rise of Telepsych One positive outcome of the COVID-19 pandemic is the widespread adoption of telepsych, offering flexibility for both providers and patients. Many PMHNPs are leveraging telepsych and obtaining licenses in multiple states to expand their reach. This trend may present exciting opportunities for PMHNPs, with some even starting their own practices, particularly in Full Practice Authority (FPA) states. We’ll talk a lot more about the Considerations and Implications of Telepscych for PMHNPs in future articles. Watch our blog for updates! FNP Work Settings and Specialties FNPs typically work in outpatient settings, such as primary care, internal medicine, geriatric medicine, and urgent care. However, they can also venture into specialty areas like cardiology, sleep medicine, endocrinology, integrative medicine, or neurology, often pursuing additional training. Some FNPs work in emergency rooms, frequently after obtaining additional Emergency Nurse Practitioner (ENP) certification. There are many different things FNPs can do, but those are some of the most common settings. Compensation Considerations While nurse practitioners generally earn competitive salaries, the exact amount varies depending on location and demand. To date (2024), PMHNPs typically command slightly higher salaries than FNPs, but salary shouldn't be the sole deciding factor. Additionally, I am hearing from our PMHNP colleagues that salaries are starting to flatten as the field becomes more saturated. Research potential job markets to avoid entering oversaturated areas. Additionally, a review of the many NP Facebook pages will reveal that some NPs have returned to working as RNs again. Whether the reason is a lack of job opportunities, burnout as a provider, a preference for bedside nursing, or something else, it’s a disturbing trend. Making an Informed Decision Ultimately, the choice between PMHNP and FNP hinges on many factors, including your passion, preferred patient population, and desired work environment. I wish you the very best in your decision to become a nurse practitioner. Keep on learning! By Lynn McComas, DNP, ANP-C The PreceptorLink® Difference At PreceptorLink®, with nearly a decade of experience in preceptor matching, we go beyond simply connecting you with preceptors. We believe in QUALITY. For our NP profession to continue to have positive outcomes, we must ensure quality education. Our goal is to match quality students with quality preceptors to develop quality clinicians. Our founder, Lynn McComas, DNP, ANP-C, has leveraged her extensive experience and contacts as an NP to create our business, educate our team, and design our tech-enabled match-making App. We want to not only connect students with qualified preceptors but also equip them to make the most of this crucial learning phase. We also quant to provide education to help support preceptors. If you need a preceptor, want to become a preceptor, or have a burning question about the nurse practitioner profession, we’re here to help! Lynn and The PreceptorLink® team are experts in the area of precepting and the NP profession. Check out our App, review our How It Works page, or reach out to us at 888-418-6620. www.PreceptorLink.com So, Why Don’t Providers Want to Precept?
I often see students on Facebook and similar forums say that they don’t understand why providers won’t precept. These same students also often promise that they will precept one day for free. That is a completely understandable perspective after all these poor students have been through in their preceptor searches! So, why are providers often hesitant to precept? Here are several of the reasons why: 1. Time Constraints: Precepting can require a significant time commitment. Providers have busy schedules, and adding the responsibility of mentoring students can be challenging. They need to balance patient care with teaching, which can extend their work hours. And that can also affect their bottom line. 2. Lack of Adequate Compensation and Incentives: In many cases, precepting doesn't come with financial incentives, recognition, or compensation. Providers may feel that the extra effort and time devoted to precepting are not adequately rewarded and just plain not worth it. 3. Increased Responsibility and Liability: Precepting involves overseeing the clinical work of students, which adds an extra layer of responsibility and potential liability. Providers or management might be concerned about the quality of care provided to patients under their supervision and the legal implications of precepting. 4. Insufficient Training or Confidence in Teaching Skills: Some providers may feel they lack the necessary skills or training to effectively mentor students. This can include uncertainty about how to evaluate students, provide constructive feedback, or manage different learning styles. 5. Administrative Burden: Precepting can involve additional administrative tasks such as completing agreements, performing evaluations, coordinating with educational institutions, and managing scheduling. This added workload can be a deterrent. 6. Impact on Patient Care and Workflow: Providers might be concerned about the potential impact on patient care and clinic workflow. Students often require more time per patient, which can lead to longer wait times and reduced efficiency. 7. Personal Preference: Some providers may simply prefer to focus solely on patient care without the added role of an educator. And, let’s be honest, not everyone should be a preceptor. Sometimes, it’s just not that individual’s skill set. (Although Preceptor Education may help that!) 8. Workload and burnout: Healthcare providers may already be dealing with heavy workloads and burnout due to the demands of their clinical practice. Taking on additional responsibilities, such as precepting, may further add to their workload and stress levels. 9. Lack of support from Management: Frequently, even though the preceptor is willing to precept, management says no. This is extremely unfortunate and frustrating to encounter, but it is their bottom line. Whether you are a healthcare professional or a healthcare institution, we must all work together to address the concerns and disincentives to precept. Providing adequate support, training, compensation, and recognition for preceptors could encourage more providers to take on this vital role. And, students, we do hope you will precept when you are on the “other side!” Whether you are a new grad or a seasoned NP, don’t forget to ask about precepting during job negotiations. You don’t want to be surprised down the road by policies you didn’t know about. We must advocate to educate the next generation of NPs! Yep! That question again. Once again, this question is popping up in articles and forums, and there’s a pretty obvious consensus developing about the reasons why nurses may be leaving the nursing profession.
The fact is this is not the first time we’ve seen a nursing shortage or seen a nursing exodus. As a longtime nurse and even longer time nurse practitioner, I’ve sure seen it before. Any experienced nurse witnessed them in the 70’s, 80’s and early 90’s. But the shortage was always filled with a fresh supply of nursing school graduates. So, what makes things feel a little different this time around? Nurses Are Burned Out: It’s no real secret, nursing is a physically and emotionally demanding job, with long hours, staffing shortages, high workload and stress levels, and exposure to traumatic situations all just part of the daily ‘normal’. Many experience anxiety or depression because of the job-related stressors. Although 2021 was a peak year, and the numbers have improved slightly, the exhaustion, cynicism, and detachment of burnout can be a career ender, for even the most dedicated of nurses. Nurses Feel Undervalued: If nothing else, the Covid Pandemic served to prove something that many nurses had been suspecting for a long time: our government, our employers, and the communities we dedicate our lives to are often long on talk and short on action when it comes to supporting the needs and aspirations of the nursing workforce. Hospital needs to cut costs? Invariably, efficiency consultants or projects look to cutting nursing staff as the answer. (I think they need to be a patient and feel the outcome of THAT decision!) The chronic lack of support, recognition, and career advancement opportunities, as well as the crushing workload that’s become average across the profession, sends far too many good nurses out looking for greener pastures elsewhere. Nurses’ Work Environments Are Often Toxic Why is it that nursing is especially prone to bullying? Bullying and harassment from colleagues and supervisors, inadequate staffing leading to unsustainable hours and responsibility loads, and a culture that downplays a nurse’s mental health and encourages a “suck it up” mentality. All of these issues and more create a work environment that nurses are leaving in droves, in order to find a healthier work-life balance. Nurses Are Getting Older And Ready To Retire As the workforce ages, a perfectly normal part of any profession, nurses simply retire. The trouble arises as we begin to see enrollment in nursing programs trend downward while nurses from the Boomer generation begin to retire at higher and higher rates every year. This resulting loss of a skilled and knowledgeable nursing workforce may result in higher turnover rates, and a shrinking pool of experienced nurses to train and mentor the new generation. The Nursing Profession Is Less Attractive Because of all these issues, we are starting to see a shift in the trends of young people entering healthcare careers, as well as established nurses leaving the profession to pursue other opportunities. Nursing is a versatile profession with many specialties and options for career advancement, but without support and encouragement, nurses are choosing to transition to different roles within or outside of healthcare or pursue further education and training in a different field altogether. It’s important to remember that simply identifying why nurses are quitting is just a small part of solving the problem. The real question we must answer as an industry is, what can we do to encourage nurses to STAY? Instead of wringing our hands over all the problems, let’s begin to address these issues through policy and cultural shifts. Let’s begin to promote a positive work environment by addressing nurses' mental health seriously. Let’s promote and prioritize a health work-life balance for nurses. Let’s court the younger workforce with career advancement opportunities and other benefits. In general, let’s focus the resources of the healthcare industry on making nursing a healthy, thriving profession that our best and brightest are attracted to. Let’s stop thinking of nurses as commodities. Nurses are highly educated professionals who need to be valued and respected. A change in this philosophy will help fill nursing schools and nursing positions. Each of these questions is meant to ask potential NP students to think deeply about the factors that are most important in their educational and professional journey.
Choosing the right specialty for your Nurse Practitioner (NP) career is critical, both for your long-term job satisfaction and for your success in the job market after graduation. Finding the balance between an area that suits your skills, interests, lifestyle, and personality and one where you can actually successfully land a job takes a lot of consideration and research. It’s a decision that you must take seriously, and there is much to consider. Here are a few thoughts to help you through the decision-making process:
Once you’ve answered those questions, it’s time to do some research. You can comb through LinkedIn and other job board postings, talk to mentors in the field, and reach out to current practitioners in your area to find out more about their experiences. Facebook groups for NPs can be a great way to connect with experienced practitioners and learn a little bit about their stories. Although this can be hard in today’s healthcare environment, see if you can shadow NPs in different specialties to get a firsthand experience of their day-to-day work. This can help you better understand the nature of their practice, patient interactions, and job responsibilities. It can also help you determine if a particular specialty is the right fit for you. What you’re looking for is that “sweet spot” where location, job market, and your healthcare passions all intersect. This extra effort in the short run, before you commit to a program of study, can save you a lot of trouble and disappointment in the long run! Who doesn’t want to earn a little extra income while still putting your Nurse Practitioner (NP) or Physician Assistant (PA) skills to good use? If that’s you, you're in the right place! We've got a list of intriguing side hustles tailored for NPs and PAs and PAs that not only let you do what you know and love but also pad your wallet a bit. Let's dive into the possibilities! I’d always recommend that you “stay in your lane” and not fake your area of expertise, however. 1. Home Healthcare Assessments: Conduct home healthcare assessments part-time, helping patients with chronic conditions manage their health in the comfort of their homes. I did this and loved it. A love of seniors and reliable care are beneficial. I had to drive a lot, and you need to make sure that they allot you enough time for the visits AND drive time. Try to make sure you are in one drivable area. This can also be a great job if you only want a part-time job with some flexibility. 2. Online Health Coaching: Offer part-time virtual health coaching services to individuals seeking guidance on nutrition, fitness, and overall well-being. This can be done via video calls or chat platforms. Health coaching is very popular these days, and there are even health coaches for specific medical diagnoses, like Diabetes, Arthritis, Cancer, etc., so you can specialize in what you know! There are also Health Coach Certifications that you pay for. 3. Freelance Medical Writing: Sharing Expertise through Words As NPs and PAs, we possess a wealth of medical knowledge, which can benefit a wider audience through the art of writing. Freelance medical writing allows clinicians to educate and inform through articles, blog posts, and e-books. This side hustle not only offers a creative outlet but also contributes to the dissemination of valuable healthcare information. 4. Medical Consulting: Shaping the Future of Healthcare Do you have a penchant for problem-solving and innovation? You might venture into medical consulting. This role involves providing strategic guidance to healthcare organizations, startups, or clinics. NPs and PAs' clinical experience and insight can help shape the future of healthcare delivery and management. Try using LinkedIn to reach out to those who might need your services, and, of course, make sure your LinkedIn profile and resume support your skillset. 5. Health and Wellness Blogging: Consider starting a health and wellness blog where you share your expertise on staying healthy and balanced in life. You can monetize your blog through ads, affiliate marketing, or sponsored content. 6. Educator for Certification Prep: Leverage your knowledge to teach and prepare aspiring nurses or NPs and PAs for certification exams. Create online courses or offer one-on-one tutoring sessions. Many NPs (like the amazing Margaret Fitzgerald, DNP, FNP-BC, FAANP, and Amelie Hollier, DNP, FNP-BC, FAANP) have started or moved into this space (like Sarah Michelle, FNP). 7. Health-related YouTube Channel: Start a YouTube channel where you discuss health topics, provide advice, and share tips on maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Monetize through ads and affiliate marketing. 8. Virtual Second Opinion Consultations: Offer virtual second opinion consultations for patients seeking additional insights on their healthcare decisions. Provide your expertise through video consultations. Ok, I have to be honest, this makes me nervous. Talk about HIPAA and liability concerns. So, if you do this, I’d consult with a lawyer first. 9. Holistic Health Workshops: Host part-time workshops on holistic health practices, such as meditation, mindfulness, or herbal remedies. Charge participants for attending. Such a growing area! 10. Health-related Affiliate Marketing: Promote health and wellness products as an affiliate marketer. You can earn commissions for every sale generated through your referral links. 11. Teach Nursing School Clinicals or be PT Clinical Faculty or Adjunct Faculty: Whether it’s LPN, RN, BSN, MSN, or DNP, there is a shortage of faculty for nursing programs. My colleague did 2 classes a year for several years at a State University, and now she has qualified for a pension! 12. Chart Reviews for Attorneys: Many seasoned NPs love this little side gig! 11. Precepting: Educating the Next Generation of NPs and PAs! You know we love this one! Mentoring aspiring NPs and PAs as a clinical preceptor is not only a fulfilling side hustle but also a way to give back to the profession. By sharing their expertise and experiences, NPs and PAs play a vital role in shaping the future of healthcare by educating and guiding the next generation of Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants. (Explore more through www.PreceptorLink.com, where we can offer an honorarium for preceptors.) In the world of healthcare, Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants are not limited to their primary roles. Side hustles allow NPs and PAs to diversify their careers, impact their communities in new ways, and enhance their financial well-being. Whether it's through telehealth consultations, wellness coaching, medical writing, consulting, or preceptorship, NPs and PAs can harness their skills and passion to unlock a world of opportunities. Tell us what you have done and what your experience was like. And tell us about other side hustles we might not have listed! Lillie’s story is one of resilience and unwavering dedication.
An experienced Certified Nurse Assistant from Cameroon, Lillie harbored the dream of advancing her nursing career in the United States. Her journey was arduous, yet driven by passion, she moved to the States and earned her Associate of Science in Nursing in 2019. Despite the challenges of meeting the stringent requirements to become an RN in the U.S., Lillie persevered. I had the pleasure of assisting her in securing a pediatric preceptorship to complete her final 40 hours—a step that would finally crown her efforts. Today, Lillie is not only an RN but also a beloved figure among her patients, who commend her as "the best nurse on the unit." Now, she sets her sights on a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, continuing to inspire and aspire. Lillie's success story shines a light on the potential solution to the nursing shortage plaguing the U.S. healthcare system. The shortfall, fueling burnout and high turnover, calls for innovative resolutions, one of which is embracing the contributions of international nurses like Lillie. These professionals often bring diverse experience and new perspectives to patient care, yet they face considerable barriers to practice in the U.S. Streamlining the transition for these international nurses is a promising avenue for addressing our healthcare needs. The process, involving credential recognition and cultural acclimatization, demands both compassion and efficiency. We must uphold the high standards of care while easing the integration of these qualified individuals into our medical community. Supporting international nurses in their journey doesn't detract from the necessity to tackle core issues such as burnout and educational constraints. However, their inclusion can provide temporary relief and enrich our healthcare tapestry. As Lillie's story illustrates, international nurses are ready and eager to serve; we must be equally ready to welcome their dedication and skills. By fostering an environment that aids international nurses in realizing their dreams, as we did for Lillie, we do not just fill vacancies. We reinforce a culture of diversity, quality, and compassion that is the hallmark of our healthcare system. Lillie and many like her are not merely filling a gap; they are bringing a fresh zeal to the noble vocation of nursing, reminding us that at the heart of healthcare is the universal language of human care and connection. Lillie's narrative embodies the journey and potential impact of international nurses in the U.S., highlighting a personal story while underscoring the broader implications for healthcare policy and practice. At PreceptorLink® we could not be more happy and proud to help amazing colleagues like Lillie accomplish their dreams! Congratulations, RN Lillie! Are you tired of being a kind and nurturing preceptor? Are you looking for new ways to make your students' lives just a tad more challenging? Well, you're in luck! Here, we'll explore some unconventional and humorous strategies to keep those eager students guessing and occasionally questioning their career choices. (This is the counter of my last article, “The Art of Annoying Your Preceptor: A Masterclass in What Not To Do." It seemed only fair to play both sides of this!) Remember, this is written tongue-in-cheek, and we certainly are NOT making light of these real situations that students report. As always, we encourage positive teaching practices and quality education. Let's dive into the world of “Preceptor What Not To Do’s.”
1. The Art of Misleading Guidance Why give clear and concise instructions when you can leave your students utterly baffled? Offer cryptic guidance, like "You'll know it when you see it" or "Trust your instincts." Watch as they struggle to decode your enigmatic wisdom. (Although this can be true!) 2. The Rotating Expectation Wheel Keep your students on their toes by frequently changing your expectations. One day, emphasize the importance of a complete history when reporting; the next, act as if it's an optional concept and tell them you don’t have time for all this information. This rollercoaster of expectations will leave them exhilarated (and confused). 3. The "Withholding Information" Game Why spoon-feed knowledge when you can make your students work for it? Deliberately withhold essential details and watch as they embark on wild goose chases for information they didn't know they needed. 4. The Mystery Diagnosis Challenge Create a medical mystery that Sherlock Holmes himself would struggle to solve. Give your students obscure symptoms and contradictory test results. Bonus points for making them question their medical knowledge. 5. The Rapid-Fire Question Round During rounds or presentations, fire a relentless barrage of questions at your students with no regard for their confidence or preparedness. Encourage your colleagues to join in for maximum stress. 6. The "Impending Doom" Vibe Maintain a perpetual aura of impending doom during your teaching sessions. Throw in phrases like "This is a make-or-break moment," "The stakes have never been higher," and "Good luck." Bonus points if you can make them break a sweat. 7. The Accidental "Over-The-Top" Sarcasm Incorporate sarcasm into your feedback and pretend you're utterly amazed by their simplest accomplishments. For example, "Wow, you managed to tie your shoelaces today. Impressive." 8. The "Missing Mentor" Routine Occasionally disappear for extended coffee breaks or long lunches, leaving your students to fend for themselves. It's essential to test their independence, right? 9. The "Unpredictable Availability" Schedule One day, be overly accessible and offer endless guidance. The next, become a ghost, leaving your students frantically searching for answers. It's all part of the adventure! 10. The Guilt-Inducing Hints Drop subtle hints about the competitiveness of the medical field and the astronomical debt they'll accumulate. Make them second-guess every life choice that led them to your preceptorship. 11. The "Disparaging Dialogue" Act For an extra dose of discomfort, publicly criticize your students in front of colleagues, patients, and anyone who'll listen. Nitpick their every move, question their competence, and make them feel like they're perpetually under a microscope. Remember, sarcasm and passive-aggressiveness are your best allies in this endeavor. (Please don’t do this! If you need to speak to your student, do it privately and professionally. If needed, bring in their faculty.) We LOVE and value our preceptors! But, just like students, not all have the most ideal teaching skills. Building a positive and supportive learning environment is the key to producing confident and capable clinicians. So, go forth and do your best at precepting! Consider adding a dash of humor and a whole lot of encouragement! Ah, the age-old quest to find ways to annoy your clinical preceptor - a noble endeavor indeed! While I don't condone such behavior, this is a REAL list of things that preceptors have reported. Granted, most students are not like this. Most are great, but you may see some of these things if you precept enough students! Please avoid these things so you don’t drive your clinical preceptor to the brink of madness.
1. Arrive Fashionably Late. Show up to your clinical rotation 10, 15, or even 30 minutes late every day. After all, who needs punctuality in the medical field? Your preceptor will be thrilled to start their day with the delightful surprise of your tardiness. 2. Dress to Impress... the Wrong Way! Forget about wearing professional attire; opt for something more whimsical. A Hawaiian shirt and flip-flops combo will surely make a memorable impression. Plunging neckline or mini-skirt will be sure to keep patients attentive and cause a stir with the office staff! 3. Question Everything. Never miss an opportunity to question your preceptor's orders, diagnoses, or treatment plans. Make sure to do it loudly and in front of the entire medical team for maximum impact. And don’t forget the eye-roll or dismissive comment. 4. Interrupt, Interrupt, Interrupt. Don't let anyone finish a sentence, especially your preceptor. Jump in with your thoughts, irrelevant anecdotes, or the latest trending meme. Conversation skills are overrated, anyway. 5. Google It All. Why rely on your preceptor's extensive medical knowledge when you have Google at your fingertips? Constantly fact-check them during rounds, citing the first search result you find. 6. Never Take Notes. Who has time for jotting down important information? Just wing it and rely on your photographic memory (if you have one). Your preceptor will be in awe of your abilities… or not. 7. Overshare Personal Details. Ensure your preceptor knows your entire life story, from your pet hamster's dental problems to your Aunt Martha's knitting hobby. They'll appreciate the diversion from actual medical work. 8. Forget About Hygiene. Personal hygiene is for the weak. Show up smelling like a dumpster on a hot summer day, and you'll be unforgettable, albeit not in a good way. 9. Take Really Long Lunch Breaks. Lunchtime is for napping or making TikTok videos, not for discussing cases or learning from your preceptor. Take excessively long lunch breaks. Come back late again. 10. Constantly Complain. Complain about everything - the workload, the hours, the patients, the drive, the coffee in the break room, and the fact that you have to wear pants. Your preceptor will surely admire your positivity. 11. Disdain Their Patient Population. For your peds (or whatever) rotation, mention that you "hate peds and are only doing this rotation to check off the box.” This will really motivate your preceptor to teach you about his/her passion and profession! Okay, we hope this is more funny than truthful to you! Obviously, it's crucial to maintain professionalism and respect when working with clinical preceptors and colleagues. Building a good relationship with your preceptor is essential for your education and future career, so be sure to demonstrate your dedication and commitment in a positive and respectful manner. Who knows, they might provide a good reference or be on the other side of the interview table someday. Stay tuned! Next, we’ll flip this topic on its head and talk about things that Preceptors do that make life particularly hard on students! As the nurse practitioner owner of PreceptorLink®, I've always held a keen interest in the nuances and changes happening in our industry. Owning a business gives you a vantage point to see things not just as an individual, but as part of a broader community. Combining my longtime background as a clinician with the role of a business owner, I have a unique perspective. Today, I'd like to share with you some intriguing insights that I believe will resonate with our entire profession.
Our team at PreceptorLink® values feedback immensely. Every bit of praise, concern, or suggestion helps us recalibrate our efforts to serve you better. A significant part of our mission is to exponentially grow the number of available and willing clinical preceptors for APRNs and NPs. With this aim in mind, we routinely send out surveys to all our clients, assessing their satisfaction with our services and inquiring about their willingness to precept in the future. One pattern has emerged from these surveys that I find both enlightening and somewhat alarming. After reviewing numerous student surveys, we've noticed a direct correlation between their experience with preceptors and their future intent to precept. Specifically, students who expressed dissatisfaction with their preceptor or clinical rotation were considerably less inclined to consider precepting in the future. However, it's crucial to add perspective here. This is not necessarily a reflection of the quality of the preceptors. In over nine years of preceptor matching, we've placed thousands of students, and, while we always strive for the best matches, not every student will have a “great” experience. Many elements can factor into this equation: fit, personalities, schedules, school issues, and communication, just to name a few. It's unrealistic to expect every student-preceptor pairing to be flawless. We've come to appreciate that every story has two sides. Ponder the implications of these findings. If our students of today, who are our potential preceptors of tomorrow, carry negative preceptorship memories, it could significantly impact the availability of future preceptors. This realization underscores the importance of ensuring students are matched with quality preceptors. It's not just about the immediate learning experience; it's about fostering a mentorship cycle crucial for our profession's growth and quality. This observation is not an indictment but an intriguing aside we've witnessed, which the profession might want to explore further. Rest assured, our team doesn't take this lightly. Every piece of feedback, whether positive or negative, is thoroughly reviewed. We believe in looking at both sides of every story. It's not just about addressing student concerns but also about understanding the challenges and viewpoints of preceptors. We can help bridge gaps, mend misunderstandings, and facilitate growth by fostering open communication and creating a balanced environment. In closing, I'd like to reiterate our commitment at PreceptorLink® to creating a nurturing environment for all. The students of today are poised to become the providers, mentors, and leaders of tomorrow. Let's ensure they have the best possible experiences, so they are inspired to give back to the community when the time comes. If we all work together, understanding the intricacies and influences of our actions, we can create a bright future for the NP profession. Thank you for being an integral part of this journey. Your feedback, partnership, and trust are what drive us to do better every day. Education remains the cornerstone of excellence for the ever-evolving world of nursing professionals. Over the past several years, Nurse Practitioner (NP) and Advanced Practice Registered Nursing (APRN) education has been reshaped by the rise of online education. Additionally, online education for APRNs has been reshaped by Online Program Management (OPM) companies. As with all innovations, OPMs have brought both opportunities and a set of unique challenges. Understanding this landscape can be crucial for nursing professionals seeking to upgrade their expertise or enter the field of advanced practice nurse.
The Rise of Online Program Management in NP Education Online Program Management companies have become integral partners for many universities and educational institutions. The goal of an OPM is to help in the design, administration, and delivery of online courses and programs. Traditionally, NP/APRN programs have been bound by geographical limits. However, with the assistance of online education, institutions can now reach aspiring NPs/APRNs from virtually anywhere, thus broadening their student base and increasing accessibility. Pros of OPMs in NP/APRN Education: Expertise and Resources: OPMs bring technological know-how and resources, helping institutions launch sophisticated online platforms that might have been out of reach otherwise. Marketing and Recruitment: With expertise in digital marketing, OPMs can attract a broader student base, enhancing enrollment and diversity. Data Analytics: OPMs often utilize analytics to improve course offerings, tailoring them to students' needs and potentially improving outcomes. Cons of OPM in NP/APRN Education: Quality Concerns: With the rapid proliferation of online programs, there are concerns about maintaining the caliber and rigor, especially with NP education. As OPMs focus on scalability and profitability, there's a concern that the quality of education might be compromised. It's essential to ensure that online courses uphold the same standards expected for any quality NP educational model. Financial Implications: While OPMs can expand a university’s reach, some OPMs operate on revenue-sharing models, which might take a significant portion of tuition fees. This arrangement could potentially inflate tuition costs and raise concerns about online programs' cost and value proposition. Loss of Institutional Autonomy: Partnering with OPMs might mean relinquishing some control over course creation and management, potentially diluting the institution's unique value proposition. This could prove frustrating for faculty and students alike. The entrance of OPMs into the advanced practice nursing arena has amplified both the opportunities and concerns. As highly educated nursing professionals, it's imperative to approach online education critically, recognizing its strengths and limitations while still advocating for standards that uphold the esteemed tradition of the nursing profession. Ensuring the maintenance of rigorous standards, pushing for a blend of online and in-person experiences, and making informed choices about program selection will all play a part in leveraging the best options for the future of NP and APRN education. Dr. Patrice Little, of NP Student, intervews Lynn McComas, the founder of PreceptorLink®, on the vital role preceptorship plays in transforming nurse practitioner students into skilled professionals. She offers actionable strategies for optimizing clinical experiences and emphasizes the significance of treating these rotations as potential career-defining opportunities. Do you remember the good ol' days when Nurse Practitioners (NPs) depended on Dr. Google or Facebook to answer medical queries? Oh wait, we still do! 🥴 But the future is knocking at the door, and its name is AI! Yes, folks, Artificial Intelligence is no longer confined to those creepy sci-fi movies. It’s sneaking into our lecture halls, clinical labs, and even popping up during coffee breaks. I’m a natural-born innovator, so AI doesn’t scare me. It excites me! So, let’s explore how NPs can buddy up with AI without becoming part-time robotic overlords!
1. The "Know-it-all" Virtual Assistant: Ever had that midnight question that keeps you tossing and turning in bed? Instead of pinging your already-overwhelmed NP study group, ask your friendly AI assistant. They're up 24/7, and no, they don't get annoyed by your constant "Why's." 2. No More "Dummy" Patients: Tired of practicing on plastic dummies that neither complain nor compliment? Enter AI-driven virtual patients. They can mimic real-life symptoms, ask confusing questions, and even fake a dramatic fainting episode (all without actually hurting anyone). 3. Study Buddy Extravaganza: AI can track what you're good at and where you're, well, let’s say, "creatively challenged." Personalized quizzes, mock tests, and fun pop quizzes – it's like having a personal tutor without the stern looks and heavy sighs! 4. “You’ve Got Mail! And it’s a Research Update!”: Keeping up with the latest research articles can be as tricky as chasing a toddler with a chocolate bar. AI can sift through those zillion pages and give you a neat little summary, allowing you more time for, well, chasing toddlers (or more studying). 5. Role-playing? Game On! Remember those cringy role-play sessions in class? (Or am I dating myself?) AI's got you covered! Interact with virtual patients, diagnose them, and get real-time feedback. Plus, these virtual folks won't gossip about you in the cafeteria later. 6. Bye-bye Administrative Nightmares: Oh, the joy of scheduling, handling paperwork, and chasing after assignment deadlines. But guess who loves these chores? Our AI pal! Let it handle the boring stuff while you focus on the exciting world of stethoscopes, clinicals, and patient smiles. 7. Ethics Training with a Twist: Imagine a virtual world where you're the superhero NP navigating a maze of ethical challenges. With AI simulations, learn about tricky situations in an environment as fun as a video game (just without the zombies)! So, my NP colleagues, gear up for an AI-filled future where learning is fun, fast, and fabulous! And if you ever feel overwhelmed, just remember – while AI might know the entire medical encyclopedia, it still can't find its way around a band-aid! Cheers to human touch (and occasional goof-ups)! 🤖👩⚕️🎉 Hi everyone, it's Lynn McComas, DNP, ANP-C, the nurse practitioner owner of PreceptorLink®. In this video, I will provide you with tips and suggestions on how to find your own preceptor for your rotations. I will discuss the importance of knowing your school's requirements, creating a well-written cover letter and resume, networking opportunities, affiliations with hospitals, and being persistent in your search. If you want us to take the preceptor search off your shoulders, we are happy to help! Please reach out to us at www.preceptorlink.com. Keep on learning! 00:00 Introduction 00:19 Knowing School Requirements 00:58 Creating a Cover Letter and Resume 02:09 Networking Opportunities 02:33 Joining Professional NP Associations 03:29 Utilizing Facebook Groups 03:53 Affiliations with Hospitals 04:59 Pounding The Pavement 05:52 Be Open To Travelling 07:11 Persistence Pays The History of Nursing and Its Connection to Labor Day
Why Be a PreceptorLink Preceptor?
Earlier this year a student contacted us for assistance in finding a preceptor for her spring clinical rotation. As with every student, we’re excited to help! She described her fantastic preceptor from her current rotation and mentioned this NP had agreed to precept her again if needed.
Many of our students use the same preceptor for multiple rotations, especially in areas where preceptors are not as plentiful. But what are the advantages and disadvantages to this strategy? Why Work Under the Same Preceptor? Relationships take time. Unfortunately, many clinical rotations seem to end about the time you and your preceptor find a steady rhythm. You know how to best present a patient to the preceptor. Your preceptor knows which cases will challenge you. By returning to a previous preceptor with whom you’ve worked well in the past, you have an opportunity to build on that relationship and grow your skills without the awkward adjustment period. At this point, you should be more of a benefit to your preceptor too. If you think you might want to work in the clinic with your preceptor, and your preceptor is considering hiring a new graduate, these hours working together could lead seamlessly into your first NP position. Even if your preceptor isn’t sure they are ready to add another provider when you start, they might find you an indispensable part of the clinic with whom patients are already comfortable. Why Choose a Different Preceptor? Every clinic and hospital department has a different culture. While you may find yourself comfortable within the culture of your current preceptor, you may be missing out on an opportunity that offers more variety and valuable learning experiences. By branching out to multiple preceptors, you learn to be flexible in working with different types of mentors and office staff. You will have an opportunity to see different patient management styles, charting systems, and practice styles. Working with a variety of patient types will definitely help you in the long run. For example, in your current rotation, you may see mostly geriatric patients, which means you have little experience in pediatrics or women’s health. By choosing a different setting that treats more of these other categories of patients you widen your experience which benefits all your patients and your career. Plus, every preceptor has a different leadership style. As a provider, you’re a leader in the clinic. Observing how various providers treat and relate to other staff members helps you formulate your own leadership style. You’ll learn what works and what doesn’t from multiple perspectives. Choosing your preceptor or being matched to a preceptor is a big deal for your future career and your patients’ care. Staying with the same preceptor may be a good idea, especially if you hope to transition into a position there. After all, you are already “tested” and partially oriented! However, we also encourage students to branch out and not remain with the same preceptor for every rotation. A healthy mix of both new and known preceptors builds your skills and your career. Sometimes working with a patient is like herding chickens! They run all over the place, and it’s hard to get to the heart of the matter. Or the patient may be so focused on the appointment, you have a difficult time ending the visit. We talked to other NPs and found these tips and tricks that work for them and might work for you too!
Scripts to Focus the Challenging Patient’s Attention Redirect patients to the subject at hand. “I love catching up with you, but I really want to be able to address your medical needs. How are you tolerating the X that we started you on last time?” At the end of the visit, “I don’t mean to cut you off, but we only have 5 minutes left, and I’d like to discuss X with you. Can we focus on that now?” Then change directions with direct questions, if possible. When patients come in with a laundry list of complaints (isn’t this all the time?!), say something along the lines of, “Wow, you have a lot of concerns. Since we only have X minutes, what do you feel is most important to focus on today?” Tactics for Ending the Appointment Practice scripts to end your patient visit politely and kindly. “I’m so sorry, but I really need to get to my next patient,” or “I’m so sorry, but we really need to end the visit for today.” You might feel you need to add, “Do you want to schedule a follow-up to address this more?” “Why don’t we follow-up in X days/weeks/months to see how things are going.” “You know, I really want to be able to fully understand and address this issue. Can we schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss it?” If you’re still having trouble, assign office staff to knock and say, “Excuse me, but Dr. Black is on the phone for you,” or a similar code word when an allotted time is passed, especially if you are in a room with a known Chatty Cathy. Telehealth/telepsych providers also find this technique helpful. Alternatively, staff can announce on the overhead intercom that you are needed to help end the visit. Telehealth/telepsych providers can also try saying, “Oh, it looks like my next patient is online. I’d better wrap this up. Is there anything else we need to talk about, or should we get you scheduled for a follow-up?” Near the end of the appointment time, review the most pressing problem and possible treatment plans. As appropriate, suggest 2-3 options for plans: Do we change the dose or therapy? Do we start or change medication or treatment? Do we refer? Do we want to give it some more time? If appropriate, bring the patient into the decision-making. The answer can help guide the timeframe for the next step. Then, sum things up. Review any med changes or instructions and head towards the door. One hand on the doorknob helps give patients the hint. If that doesn’t work, walk the patient to the scheduler to make their follow-up when you need to get them out the door. Most patients appreciate this extra step. Yes, it takes a little more time, but it can help show the end of the visit. (Hopefully, your scheduler can manage him/her!) As you walk away, remind patients they can message or call you, as needed and can always move up a visit. I often end with a very warm, friendly comment. “It was so good to see you, and I’m glad you are well,” or “I’m so glad you came in to discuss this with me. We’ll work together to get to the bottom of this.” In the end, you may need to just schedule a longer appointment for some patients that always need more time. Benefits of Digital Communication Not every patient question or concern requires an office visit. Educate your staff on how to screen calls and messages before they come to you. Provide guidelines for when the patient needs an office visit or when it needs to be referred to you for a call-back or follow-up. (Err on the safe side though. Your MA may not understand what is important!) Along this line, one popular suggestion was that if a patient message requires more than a yes or no answer, an appointment should be scheduled. Some clinicians find messaging back instead of calling back is a more effective way to respond to patients, however, if a patient is always calling in or messaging you, consider scheduling him/her for more frequent follow-up visits or a telehealth call where you can at least bill for your time. I love working with my patients and helping them address their health concerns, but we all have patients who require more time than others. What tactics have you found to help you manage your time with these challenging patients? Tips and Tricks from the Trenches: Ā Ā Ā How to Manage Your Patient Care Time Most Effectively3/29/2022 Clinicians are always looking for ways to manage their patient care time most effectively. You care about your patient and want to hear about their trip to the Grand Canyon/Daughter’s Wedding/List of complaints a mile long, but you still have to maintain your schedule and your sanity! We got feedback from NPs across the nation, and here are some tips that might help!
Take Full Advantage of Your Staff Your support staff acts as the front line to your schedule. Educate and delegate to your support staff so they pre-screen the visit and manage patient expectations. You may even provide scripts for them such as, “I’ll let the NP know that you have several issues to discuss, but she/he might not be able to address them all today. We can always schedule a follow-up visit if needed though.” As part of this pre-screen process, have back-office staff give patients depression screens, vision screens, etc., as appropriate before you see the patient. Depending on why the patient is there, checklists or templates can be helpful and may be completed by the patient ahead of time or with you. A good Medical Assistant/back-office person can help you know what to expect before you enter your patient’s room. A sticky note or message that says, “Pt here for a rash on back but BP 180/100” can help you focus on the most important things. Learn your staff’s knowledge level. Sometimes they know the patient better than you, especially if you’re new to the practice. Implement Standard Processes While some visits require more than the allotted time, others may not fill the entire appointment. Use these “simple” visits (if there is such a thing) and refills to help you make up/save time. If someone is just there for a refill, and they are doing well, create a process where you review things as appropriate, give them the refill, and move on to the next patient. “It sounds like things are going well on your current regimen. I’ll give you x months of refills and see you back in X months. Does that sound like a plan?” Some clinicians find starting the day 30-60 minutes before patients to prep charts can be a time-saver in the end. Review your schedule, review records/labs/imaging, prep notes, including the Plan section to note the things you intend to address, such as a prior complaint, lab work, med changes, etc. In many settings, over time you will get to know your patients and their diagnoses, and this can help in being able to cut to the core of the visit. If you find yourself routinely going over on time, using a timer app or timer on your phone/watch can help you keep an eye on the clock. You might even let the patient know that you are doing this to help keep you on time with patients. Set an alarm to warn you of the half-way point and/or when you have 5 or 10 minutes left. Train yourself to cue the patient on the time limit when the timer buzzes. “It looks like we only have 5/10 minutes left for this visit. Is there anything else you would like me to know?” If you are in a setting where you see the same patient regularly, during your patient’s first appointment, outline the amount of time you have for visits. Let them know you value their time, and you will do your best not to be late. Along that line, you or your practice setting might want to establish a late patient policy. Do you accept late patients? What is the cut-off? If a patient is 10 minutes late, let them know that you want to provide them the maximum amount of time you can, and if they are late, it may cut into the time you can spend with them. Obviously, this only works if you are generally on time! End the Charting Time Warp Charting eats up more time than we’d like, and it’s often left to the end of the day to complete. Use these ideas to chart faster and prevent this task from eating up your precious time.
Caring for patients can be extremely rewarding, but it can also be full of challenges. What techniques do you use to help manage your patient care time with quality and TLC? PreceptorLink was born from necessity. Nurse practitioner students like you have struggled to find preceptors for years. As clinics require NPs, PAs, and physicians to see more patients in a day, we’ve witnessed the availability of preceptors decline. Paying preceptors an honorarium for their time fills the gap for students who can’t find a preceptor, however, we never intended for it to be your first stop. Before you give us a call, check out these five ways to find a preceptor without paying. (Hint: #1 is a little-known secret that will widen your opportunities immensely.)
#1 Compact State Thirty-nine states participate in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) that allows RNs with a license in one of those states a reciprocal license in the other participating states. If you cannot find a preceptor in your state where you are licensed, you are legally able to cross state lines to take a preceptor if both states are part of the NLC. This opportunity opens many doors, especially for NP students looking for psych preceptors where telepsych is accepted. As you search for preceptors, consider areas where you have relatives who might allow you to stay with them during your rotation. You may also weigh the pros and cons of staying in a hotel for the duration of your rotation if you find a preceptor out of town. If your state is not an NLC state, it might be worth checking into getting a license in an NLC state so you have the option of finding preceptors beyond your state’s borders. (This applies only to your RN license, not your APRN, and you should always check with your state board to confirm compact state status.) #2 Be Prepared Take a minute before you start your preceptor search to inventory your professional persona. Finding a preceptor is increasingly competitive. You’ll improve your chances dramatically by polishing your resume to ensure it highlights your nursing experience and background. Start with the most recent NP rotation experience, but also include your RN experience where relevant. While you’re updating your resume, scroll through your LinkedIn and Facebook accounts. Your LinkedIn account should include the same or similar information as your resume. As you view your Facebook account consider how posts you’ve written or shared might be viewed by prospective preceptors. Many times preceptors will review a candidate’s social media for a idea of their personality and fit. #3 Your Network Remember the old saying it’s not what you know but who you know? When it comes to finding an NP preceptor, who you know makes a big difference. Your instructors, co-workers, family members, and friends all offer potential connections to NPs, PAs, and physicians who could be willing to act as your preceptor. Ask everyone you know. You widen your network by joining your state association for nurses and nurse practitioners along with national associations. Start with the general nurse practitioner associations, then widen your net to include associations for the specialty with which you need a preceptor. Some of these associations have opportunities for you to announce your needs to their members. And now that associations are conducting in-person meetings again, you have opportunities to meet potential preceptors face-to-face. #4 Social Media Resources Right behind your network, your Facebook and LinkedIn profiles have the potential to be your second greatest asset. Use the platforms to connect with nurse practitioners, NP groups, and nursing organizations. Some NP groups on both LinkedIn and Facebook allow you to announce your need for a preceptor. Other groups have the sole focus of connecting students with available preceptors for free. Use social media to research prospective preceptors to find who you may know in common and ask for an introduction. Or reach out through private messaging on a clinic’s social media page. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, NP students routinely hit the pavement going clinic to clinic seeking out preceptors. With an influx of patients and concern for safety, this method has been discouraged over the last two years making finding preceptors that much more difficult. Social media can help fill the gap. #5 Online Ads Online ads with Indeed and LinkedIn offer additional digital sources for finding your next preceptor. While online ads aren’t free, you’ll pay for the ads versus paying a preceptor which is typically less expensive. Do some research on the best way to word your ads and how to target those ads to reach your top prospects. Finding a preceptor can turn into a full-time job in some areas where competition is high and preceptors are less plentiful. If you’re struggling to find the right preceptor for your upcoming rotation, check out our list. We work with thousands of preceptors all across the United States. If you don’t see the rotation you need, reach out to us. We have new preceptors joining us every day. Over the last two years, nurse practitioners, PAs, and doctors have been on the frontline of treating patients during the COVID-19 pandemic along with nurses, social workers, and other healthcare workers. The stress of the pandemic combined with high patient expectations and oftentimes low workplace support has led to burnout among many healthcare workers. The AMA reports 49% of physicians experienced burnout at the end of 2020. In February 2021, a report by the Journal of Nurse Practitioners recorded the rate of burnout of Primary Care Provider Nurse Practitioners at 22.6% to 25.1%. Those working in ICU and ER settings are feeling the stress even more.
If you’re experiencing exhaustion and other signs of burnout, you are not alone. We can’t control the number of patients who enter your clinics each day, but we can help you find ways to help create a work-life balance. Your mental and physical health affects the quality of care you offer your patients and your family. To help, we asked providers how they create more balance in their lives. Here’s what we found: ▶ Even though you are busy in the hospital or clinic, try to stay well hydrated, particularly with water. Even mild dehydration can affect you mentally and physically. And, along that line, don’t hold it too long! ▶ Find exercise in everyday activities: park further away from the building, take the stairs, do squats to pick up items from the floor, do curls with the laundry detergent, etc. ▶ The best time of day to exercise is whenever you can do so consistently, but studies show that exercising first thing in the morning can increase the chances that you will maintain an exercise program because morning workouts leave less room for excuses. Plus morning workouts can help you sleep better at night. But do whatever you can maintain consistently. ▶ Set a reminder on your phone or computer to remind you to exercise. (Hello, lunges down your hallway!) ▶ Find a workout buddy. ▶ Speed walk around the inside of the clinic or outside every hour or two. ▶ Hire administrative help at work or home or housekeeping or chore help at home if possible. ▶ Use dot phrases to cut down on charting time. This can make a big difference in charting time! Put in the time up-front to save you time down the line. ▶ Learn to leave work at a set time even if all the charting isn't finished. ▶ Work part-time for a while if you're feeling burned out. It’s not always possible, but if it is, it can really help. ▶ Schedule your work for four 10-hour days to get an "extra" day off. ▶ Prep meals so you have lunch ready and don't snack on junk all day. Think about or plan your meals for the week ahead of time so you know what to buy and when 5:00 pm rolls around, you know what’s for dinner. ▶ Avoid time wasters. Your time is valuable. ▶ Find ways to exit long, unproductive conversations with patients and co-workers. Some tips when precepting: 📌If you have students, allow them to chart the note, and then you review it, make any changes, and sign off. This is legal and can improve efficiency when precepting. 📌Have students make call backs and follow-ups when you are in ear-shot and can concur with their comments/advice. It’s good practice for students and can help providers save some time. Provider and student should both sign off on correspondence. What creative steps have you taken to create more work-life balance and reduce burn out? You’re winding up your final semester in nurse practitioner school, it’s time to dust off your resume and prepare for the job hunt. Some areas of the country have more nurse practitioners than positions, so it’s important to present your best self to future employers. First Impressions MatterYour first impression starts before you ever answer a call or meet with a prospective employer. Check out this list of dos and don’ts as you enter the workforce of clinicians. Do’s Polish your resume Update education to include advanced degrees Clean up your social media (yes, prospective employers are looking) Write a cover letter List only nursing and clinical history (No need to include your year working at Dairy Queen in high school.) List experience and education starting with the most recent List clinical rotations (Experienced NPs can eliminate this section) Use a synopsis of the type of patients you treated Keep it simple. (1-2 pages is generally sufficient.) Don’ts Don’t include your full address. City and state are fine. (This protects you.) Don’t list your high school or non-industry jobs Don’t list long descriptions of your work (Employers know what nurses do. See note above about synopsis of patients treated instead.) Don’t use crazy fonts or colors. Preparing for the InterviewCongratulations! If you’ve scored an interview you’re well on your way to a new career as a nurse practitioner. In today’s world, most first interviews happen via video call. That doesn’t mean you get to skimp on being prepared though. Start by making sure you’ve dressed appropriately. By wearing your full interview attire including pants or a skirt you’ll feel more self-confident which comes across in the interview even if the interviewer never sees more than your top half. Make sure you’ve styled your hair and look your best. Find a quiet place for your interview with reliable internet. Test the connection beforehand. Also, do a run-through of the interview by turning on your device’s camera and seeing what your interviewer sees. Now’s the time to move the dirty clothes in the background that you didn’t realize would show in the camera shot. Possible Interview QuestionsWe can’t possibly list all the interview questions you might be asked by a prospective employer. We know our favorites, but we did a little research too. Here are some of the most common and general interview questions you’ll probably be asked:
Prospective employers will more than likely also ask situational questions such as:
Review clinical cases you’ve handled and have several stories prepared for the interview. If you haven’t managed any cases exactly like the ones your interviewer describes, relate the case to one you have experienced. You can find lists of great questions to help you prep for the interview online. Some of our favorites are on LinkedIn, Indeed, and The Interview Guys. Negotiating the DealIf you’ve gotten this far in your process, go ahead and do an arm pump and a happy dance. You’ve aced the resume and interview process, and you’re looking at a job offer. Hold up before you sign on the dotted line. The deal you’re being offered may look good at first glance, but take another look. Are you happy with the salary? The vacation time? The extra benefits?
If not, now’s the time to speak up. You don’t have to accept an offer that’s not in line with your goals moving forward. You can negotiate a deal that allows you to move closer to the lifestyle you want to have. Barbara Phillips, APRN, GNP, FNP-BC, FAANP, covers some great information about the business side of being a nurse practitioner. We especially like this article with tips on how to ask for what you want. Yes, by negotiating you do run the risk your prospective employer won’t step up to meet your requests, then you have to decide whether or not this is the job for you. On the other hand, you might just end up with a more comfortable salary, an extra week of vacation, or dedicated charting time. Completing your nurse practitioner degree and passing boards opens an entire world of opportunity for you. We can’t wait to see how you grow our profession! Studying to become a nurse practitioner and treating patients has changed quite a bit over the last 10+ years. You’re probably not handwriting notes from class or patient encounters anymore (unless the internet is down, ugh). And lucky for you, smartphones and computers offer easy access to all the information you need. We’ve scoured social media groups and the internet to compile this list of must-have apps for anyone in our profession. Have another app you love that we haven’t listed? We want to hear about it. Leave us a comment or shoot us an email.
Grammarly Billed as your “online writing assistant,” Grammarly is the one app on this list everyone needs to download. The free version highlights potentially misspelled words as well as grammar mistakes. It’s your very own editor in your back pocket. Need a little more help with your papers or notes? For a very reasonable price, Grammarly’s paid version offers more detailed suggestion and can check your work for plagiarism. UpToDate Imagine having access to the world’s leading physicians at your fingertips. UpToDate “delivers the evidence powered by clinical expertise from the world’s leading physicians.” The program is available through the internet on your desktop or laptop or as a mobile app on your smartphone or tablet. You can purchase an individual subscription or clinics and hospital groups may purchase subscriptions for their entire staff. As treatments and technology change, clinicians need access to evidence-based resources at their fingertips. You’ll find what you need on UpToDate whether you’re researching in your office, in the hallway between patients, or at home after hours. epocrates We’ve all had that patient, the one with a half-dozen drug allergies and a list of current medications even longer. How will the medication you normally prescribe for a UTI or staph infection interact with their current medication list? Epocrates is there to help. This app allows you to compare interactions with up to 30 medications at a time plus see whether or not your patient's insurance will cover the medication and determine dosing instructions. Family Practice Notebook Family practice covers a lot of ground. Clinicians in this realm diagnose and treat a little bit of everything. FPNotebook, a rapid point-of-care medical reference, gives you access to medical books focused on the topics and details you need for easy access. It even includes images you can use to prepare for procedures or for patient demonstrations. USPSTF Developed by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) to support the independent U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), this app assists primary care clinicians in choosing the screening, counseling, and preventive medication services that are appropriate for their patients. Reviewers say the app “puts evidenced based recommendations literally in the hands of clinicians that they can use as they see patients throughout the day.” Sublux Your clinic, like many others, includes x-ray, but no on-site radiologist. Sublux makes “X-rays accessible for all medical providers -- not just radiologists.” Reviewers recommend this app for all nurse practitioner and medical students. The app not only teaches the basics of plain radiography, it also includes evidence based treatments. ASCVD Is your patient at risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD)? With this risk estimator, you can estimate your patient’s risk and develop a customized plan to lower that risk all from your device. If you haven’t maxed out your phone or tablet’s memory with all these apps, stay tuned, we’re just getting started. Technology means you don’t have to spend hours searching for diagnosis options or treatment plans. You and your patients benefit from information at your fingertips. All these apps are helpful for general practice clinicians as well as specialists, but it’s not exhaustive. We’ll be adding more posts about apps for speciality clinicians over the next few weeks. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive updated information from our blog and for updated lists of available NP preceptors. |
About Lynn:As a longtime NP with a desire to help and make positive changes to her beloved profession, Lynn often writes opinion pieces about the NP profession. Archives
April 2024
Categories
All
"Why NPs train on the backs of physicians"
from KevinMD |