Each year, WCH hosts over 1,200 students from various health professions, offering them the chance to learn from world-class educators in providing high-quality, patient-centred care.
The role of a preceptor is crucial in shaping the next generation of health scientists, offering guidance, support and hands-on experience to students. At WCH, registered nurse Stephanie Sybingco has been a preceptor in the Peri-Anesthesia Unit since spring 2023.
Since beginning her preceptorship, Stephanie has had the opportunity to mentor four nursing students. For her, the most rewarding aspect of this role is witnessing her students’ progress throughout their placement. “Watching a student’s assessment skills improve over time is incredibly fulfilling,” she says. This growth not only reflects the students’ hard work but also the effectiveness of the preceptorship program.
One of the highlights of Stephanie’s preceptorship is when her students reach a level of competence and confidence that allows them to manage a significant portion of their assignment with minimal assistance. “My hallmark of a successful preceptorship is when students can seamlessly step in and contribute to the unit as part of the team,” she explains.
For those considering the path of a preceptor, Stephanie offers valuable advice: “When a student doesn’t understand a concept, I try to think of different ways to explain it from their perspective. This approach fosters a supportive learning environment and enhances the overall educational experience,” she says. “Tailoring explanations to meet the unique learning styles of students can make all the difference in their understanding and confidence.”
To ensure that her preceptorship remains relevant and impactful, Stephanie actively engages with her students about current practices. “I find that the students are taught the most current best practices, so I like asking them how my current practice compares to what they have been taught,” she shares.
By nurturing the skills and confidence of future nurses, preceptors play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of patient care and the overall effectiveness of healthcare teams. As she continues her journey in the Peri-Anesthesia Unit, her dedication to mentoring students exemplifies the impact of effective preceptorship in nursing.
Interested in being part of the preceptor network to help train the next generation of clinicians? Click here or email learninginstitute@wchospital.ca.