Abstract:
Background: Preceptorship, and a nursing student or newly qualified nurse, is a crucial approach to enhancing clinical education and patient care outcomes. However, the effectiveness of preceptorship depends on various factors, including the preceptor's knowledge, skills, and attitudes, as well as the organizational context. In Rwanda, the purpose of preceptorship in nursing education and practice is recognized, but its implementation and effectiveness have not been deeply studied.This research aimed to explore the opportunities and barriers to delivering preceptorship by qualified nurses and midwives to nursing students and newly qualified nurses at the University Teaching Hospital of Kigali (CHUK) and Rwamagana Provincial Hospital in Rwanda. Methodology: The study used a qualitative research design, involving in-depth interviews with eight individual participants and 3 focus group discussions with five, four, and three participants respectively. Data analysis was done using thematic analysis software. Results: The study identified many key opportunities, such as the growing recognition of preceptorship's importance, the availability of experienced nurses and midwives, and the existing healthcare infrastructure. However, major barriers were also uncovered, including structural and organizational challenges, educational and training barriers, and barriers related to interpersonal and communication skills. Conclusion: In conclusion, to effectively address barriers and leverage existing opportunities, this study recommends developing a national preceptorship framework and guidelines, investing in preceptor training and support, enhancing organizational resources, fostering interprofessional collaboration, and integrating preceptorship into nursing clinical education. Implementing these recommendations will strengthen the nursing education system, enhance the professional development of nurse and midwife preceptors, and ultimately improve healthcare delivery quality in Rwanda, emphasizing the crucial roles of both preceptors and preceptees.
