Preceptors’ perceptions of supporting nursing students in prison health services: A qualitative study

Abstract Background Our university commenced clinical placements for third-year nursing students in Prison Health Services (PHS) in 2014. Registered nurse preceptors employed in these services facilitated students’ experiential workplace learning, assessed their competence and assisted them to meet course objectives in this challenging environment. To date, no studies have examined preceptors’ experiences of supporting students in the prison health setting. Aim The study aim was to investigate preceptors’ perceptions of supporting nursing students undertaking clinical placements in PHS, in order to inform development of resources and processes. Methods Qualitative data were collected via a focus group and interviews with preceptors (n = 6) working in metropolitan PHS. Data underwent thematic analysis. Findings Participants valued the opportunity to support student learning, finding students contributed to the workplace by bringing in new ideas, and conducting beneficial projects. However, preceptors requested better rostering and workload management by their employer. They also wished for more detailed information from the university regarding student orientation and preparation to support student learning. They felt that the employer-provided preceptorship training did not fulfil their needs. Discussion Preceptors in PHS settings shared many of the support needs of those in other settings, although some challenges were more specific to the setting. Conclusion This paper makes recommendations on how preceptors in PHS can be better supported to fulfil the role.