No abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic emphasized the importance of preparing nursing staff at healthcare organizations to adequately respond and care for the influx of patients infected with the virus. Training redeployed nursing staff on equipment basics of acute care nursing while following social distancing guidelines posed a challenge. A skills practice laboratory was implemented utilizing a self-learning methodology while adhering to social distancing guidelines. This had favorable results in meeting objectives and improving anxiety and confidence.

Nurse managers play an important role in supporting preceptors and new hires. Unless a nurse manager had previous experience and preparation as a preceptor, they may not fully understand the role nor have the foundational knowledge needed to support preceptors and new hires throughout orientation. Educating nurse managers on preceptor core skills had a positive impact and added value to their practice.