Planning for New Grads

Hi everyone,

I hope your year is starting out GREAT!

How are your plans for 2025 coming along? I can’t believe it is already February, but here we are.

The year is moving quickly and before you know it, the new grads will be streaming into orientation, ready to test their new credentials in your organization.

Are you ready for them?

If this makes your heart flutter … never fear, help is here.

Today, we’re going to start a multi-part series (I’m not sure how many yet) on what it takes to get new grads up and running safely and competently. We'll explore the key elements of a successful preceptorship program, from initial planning and implementation to ongoing support and evaluation[7].

Disclaimer: I am a nurse, so I come at the topic from a nursing perspective. However, I have spent years working with other disciplines as well and have found that many of the same techniques, tips, and tricks work for most disciplines/professions.

So, if you are not a nurse – or manage people who are not nurses – that’s okay. We’re all in this together and will work together to help you find the best solutions for you.

Essentials of New Grad Preparation

What is needed to help new grads successfully launch their careers?

In my experience, whether utilizing a formal residency program or more informal programs like mentorship/preceptorship programs, four components must be in place for the new grads to progress successfully from nervous and new to competent and safely independent.

?Those components are:

*?? Clear expectations

*?? Competent preceptors

*?? Assistance learning to apply knowledge

*?? Compassionate support

I have seen these four components called many things and take on many forms, but when boiled down, these are the concepts at the root of successful programs.

But how do we achieve these things? Over the next few issues, we'll delve into each of these areas, providing practical strategies and actionable steps you can take to build a robust and effective program for preparing new grads in your organization. We'll cover topics such as:

?? Needs Assessment: Identifying the specific needs of your new grads and tailoring your program accordingly.

?? Preceptor Selection and Training: Choosing the right preceptors and equipping them with the skills they need to succeed.

?? Creating a Supportive Learning Environment: Fostering a culture of trust, open communication, and constructive feedback.

?? Utilizing Adult Learning Principles: Applying effective teaching strategies to promote critical thinking and independent clinical judgment.

?? Evaluation and Continuous Improvement: Measuring the success of your program and making adjustments as needed.

Are you ready? Let me know what else you think might be needed.

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