The purpose of this pilot study was to develop and test a preceptor selection instrument for validity and reliability. Using a valid and reliable instrument to help identify and select an appropriate nurse preceptor supports the success of both the preceptor and the new nurse graduate. The 14-item Cotter Preceptor Selection Instrument was developed to assess attributes of potential preceptor candidates. Use of a robust and user-friendly instrument can provide nursing leadership with a consistent, measurable, and collaborative process for selecting preceptors.
Elizabeth Cotter, PhD, RN-BC, is Associate Professor, Molloy College, Rockville Centre, and Nurse Educator, St. Francis Hospital, Roslyn, New York.
Patricia Eckardt, PhD, RN, is Associate Professor of Nursing, Molloy College, Rockville Centre, New York.
Lois Moylan, PhD, RN, is Professor of Nursing, Molloy College, Rockville Centre, New York.
The authors have disclosed that they have no significant relationship with, or financial interest in, any commercial companies pertaining to this article.
ADDRESS FOR CORRESPONDENCE: Elizabeth Cotter, Barbara Hagan School of Nursing, Molloy College, 1000 Hempstead Ave, Rockville Centre, NY 11570 (e-mail: ecotter@molloy.edu).
