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Nursing preceptor

Preceptors…working wonders every day.

“The gift of an exceptional orientation by an inspiring preceptor can never be understated.”
-Kristin Strand, RN

Our nursing department preceptor’s work wonders every day; they make all the difference to our new staff and nursing students. Precepting is an incredibly important role and responsibility. Not only do preceptors teach, but they are mentors and role models who have consistently demonstrated a passion and commitment to excellence. They are experts in the areas of clinical practices, adult learning styles, and organizational, prioritization and time management skills and they possess exceptional interpersonal skills. Our preceptors teach and support others to successfully transition into their new role and to be the best nurses they can be.

Becoming a nurse preceptor

Each nursing area identifies specific nurses to be the preceptors for their clinical area of practice. Interested nursing staff must complete an application and discuss precepting with their manager, once approved additional and specific preceptor training must be completed. During Nurses Week/Hospital Week, six preceptors were selected by the Nursing Recruitment, Retention and Recognition council as our ‘Preceptors of the Year.’

Regions Hospital - Nursing preceptors group image

(Left to right) Teresa McDonald RN S10, Katie Werner RN C51, Heather Olson RN W2
Chris Boese VPPCS, Kerriann Godwin RN S8, Dan Sedlalek RN ED, Linda Solender RN E7

Regions Hospital - Teresa McDonald

Tersa McDonald

“I love being a nurse. It is challenging mentally, physically, and emotionally, and it is also extremely rewarding.”

Teresa joined Regions in 2004 when she was in high school; she completed her nursing degree in 2008 and has been precepting since 2010. In addition to precepting, Teresa is an active member of S10’s Unit Practice Council and serves on our Shared Governance Patient Care Operations Council. “I remember what it is like to be a new grad, and I love helping others gain confidence while welcoming them to this special community.”

Comments from coworkers:

  • “Teresa developed a tip sheet for new nurses on the neuro/surgical unit called ‘Teresa’s Preceptor Guidesheet for S10, it was so helpful!“
  • “Teresa is an awesome preceptor, she made sure all of my questions were answered and showed me different ways to do things.”
  • “Teresa gave me frequent feedback; I always knew what was expected and what to expect.”
Regions Hospital - Katie Werner

Katie Werner

Katie has a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences along with an associate degree in nursing. Katie is has completed her certification in progressive care (PCCN). “Even though we as health care professionals do ‘this’ everyday, it is generally a very stressful time for patients and their families. Nurses can make it easier for them with our clinical skills and compassionate care, we can make each patient’s experience exceptional!’ Katie is a role model to many.

Comments from coworkers:

  • “Katie is a joy to work with.”
  • “She works very hard to make sure new nurses’ needs are met.”
  • “Katie keeps herself up to date clinically; she is always able to answer the hard questions.”
Regions Hospital - Heather Olson

Heather Olson

Heather graduated from Gustavus Adolphus College in 1997, she joined Regions in 2002, working in both the birth and burn centers. Heather became a preceptor after many of her coworkers told her that she would be a great one. “I love the teaching aspect of orienting new nurses to mother-baby care.” Heather intentionally supports and encourages nurses-even after orientation is completed. “I always want to strive to be hospitable and helpful to those who are just starting; many people held that role for me when I started here in 2002 and I still remember their kindness. In addition, Heather has a strong interest in spiritual health; she is currently pursuing her Masters of Divinity at Luther Seminary and has completed a spiritual direction certification program.

Comments from coworkers:

  • “Heather is always willing and excited to precept new staff to the night shift and she continues to mentor nurses after they complete orientation.”
  • “Heather took the time to ask me how I felt orientation was going.”
  • “She continues to show me opportunities to learn more.”
Regions Hospital - Kerriann Godwin

Kerriann Godwin

Kerriann completed her ADN from Palm Beach State College in Florida and later graduated from Bethel University with a BSN. She joined Regions in 2006 and has been precepting since 2008. Kerriann says that she enjoys sharing her knowledge and experience with new staff and also appreciates getting to know them. In the future Kerriann is interested in pursuing an advance practice degree or to work in nursing education.

Comments from coworkers:

  • “By taking the time to be an exceptional preceptor, Kerriann ensured I had an outstanding experience as a new nurse and for the patients we care for.”
  • “She is kind and positive in all she does.”
Regions Hospital - Linda Solender

Linda Solender

“It is satisfying to encourage and support a new employee and watch them transform from being nervous and feeling overwhelmed to becoming comfortable and competent with their new job.” Linda is not only a preceptor, she is also a respected charge nurse on one of our inpatient mental health units. She began precepting in 2007, when her nurse manager recognized her strengths and encouraged her to pursue precepting. One thing Linda appreciates about nursing is that it allows her to connect with people and promote a healthy lifestyle. In her free time she enjoys gardening and one day hopes to become a master gardener.

Comments from coworkers:

  • “Linda doesn’t just explain things; she looks for learning opportunities in all situations.”
  • “She made up a folder just for me with learning and reference materials.”
  • “Linda recognizes the strengths in others and helps others to recognize this in themselves.”