Background of the Study
Preceptorship programs are an integral part of nursing education, particularly for final-year students transitioning from academic training to clinical practice. In these programs, experienced nurses (preceptors) mentor and guide students through clinical experiences, providing real-world insights and fostering professional development. Preceptorships have been shown to enhance students' confidence levels, clinical competence, and readiness for independent practice (Smith et al., 2023). The mentorship model allows final-year nursing students to engage in hands-on learning, improve their clinical skills, and gain the confidence needed to manage patients effectively (Jones & Williams, 2024).
At Lagos State College of Nursing, preceptorship programs play a significant role in bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and clinical practice. Given the demands of nursing practice, which requires strong clinical judgment, patient care skills, and emotional resilience, the preceptor-student relationship is essential for developing these competencies (Nguyen et al., 2024). Research indicates that nursing students who participate in structured preceptor programs report higher levels of self-confidence, better clinical decision-making skills, and increased job satisfaction upon entering the workforce (Baird et al., 2023). However, while preceptorship programs are widely recognized, there is limited research specifically focused on the impact of preceptorships on the confidence levels of final-year nursing students at Lagos State College of Nursing. This study will explore how participation in preceptorship programs influences the confidence levels of nursing students nearing the completion of their training.
Statement of the Problem
Although preceptorship programs are a staple of nursing education, the specific impact of these programs on the confidence levels of final-year nursing students at Lagos State College of Nursing remains underexplored. This study will investigate how preceptorships affect students' confidence in their ability to deliver safe, competent, and compassionate care in clinical settings. The findings will help identify areas for improvement in preceptorship programs and guide future curriculum development at the college.
Objectives of the Study
1. To evaluate the impact of preceptorship programs on the confidence levels of final-year nursing students at Lagos State College of Nursing.
2. To identify the factors within preceptorship programs that contribute to enhancing students' confidence.
3. To assess the relationship between preceptorship experiences and students' preparedness for nursing practice.
Research Questions
1. How do preceptorship programs impact the confidence levels of final-year nursing students at Lagos State College of Nursing?
2. What factors within preceptorship programs contribute to increased confidence in nursing students?
3. What is the relationship between preceptorship experiences and final-year nursing students' preparedness for practice?
Research Hypotheses
1. Final-year nursing students who participate in preceptorship programs report higher levels of confidence than those who do not.
2. There is a significant relationship between preceptorship program experiences and nursing students' preparedness for practice.
3. The quality of preceptorship, including mentorship and guidance, is positively correlated with students' confidence levels.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on final-year nursing students at Lagos State College of Nursing who are currently enrolled in or have recently completed preceptorship programs. The study will evaluate how these programs influence students' confidence levels and clinical readiness. Limitations include the variability in preceptor-student interactions and the subjective nature of measuring confidence.
Definitions of Terms
1. Preceptorship Program: A structured mentorship program where final-year nursing students are paired with experienced nurses (preceptors) to gain practical, hands-on clinical experience.
2. Confidence Levels: The degree to which nursing students feel self-assured in their ability to perform clinical tasks, make decisions, and provide patient care.
3. Preparedness for Practice: The readiness of nursing students to enter the workforce and provide safe, competent, and compassionate care based on their academic and clinical experiences.
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