Deck 11: Mentoring

Question 1

Describe selection criteria for use by the nurse practitioner (NP) student when choosing a preceptor who is not an NP.

Answer 1

Preceptors should have at least 1 year of experience with a solid skill set in whatever clinical setting the experience will take place. Beyond their clinical expertise, the preceptor should have knowledge of the NP role in order to be a role model for the preceptee. For the NP student, the preceptor is not always another NP. Rather, the preceptor could be a physician's assistant, a certified nurse-midwife, or a physician.

Question 2

The nurse practitioner (NP) student is assigned an experienced NP who will provide guidance and direction related to all aspects of transitioning into the role of an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN). The short-term relationship will be limited to the practice setting and will require adherence to goals prescribed by the experienced NP. Which term best describes the experienced NP?

A) Guide
B) Role model
C) Mentor
D) Preceptor

Answer 2

Preceptor

Question 3

Differentiate between a coach and a role model in the context of the nurse practitioner (NP) student's development.

Answer 3

A role model serves as an example of desirable behavior for another individual. Role models include those people in whom we find qualities that are admirable or appealing. We can choose one or more role models. Engagement with a role model may or may not include direct contact or a relationship. In the context of the nurse practitioner (NP) student's development, the role model could be a person who is from the same discipline, such as a current NP leader or faculty member, or the role model may not be from the same profession. NP students can identify what qualities they feel are important and would like to emulate. A rewarding experience with a role model can lead the NP student to set professional self-expectations and goals. By contrast, a coach helps move an individual forward to where he or she wants to be with regard to a specific goal or issue; for example, achieving a desired weight or writing an article for publication. Specific goals could be set by the coach, the individual, or mutually set depending on the context. Coaches may be assigned or chosen.

Question 4

The nurse practitioner (NP) provides care to a patient diagnosed with obesity. During the course of treatment, the NP inspires and empowers the patient to lose weight through exercise and improved nutrition. Which term best describes the NP's role?

A) Teacher
B) Coach
C) Mentor
D) Guide

Question 5

Differentiate between a mentor and a preceptor.

Question 6

Summarize key aspects of the stages of mentoring.

Question 7

Application of mentorship principles established by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) Fellows includes which strategy?

A) Establishing a mutually beneficial relationship
B) Emphasizing achievement of personal goals
C) Avoiding the use of defined objectives
D) Minimizing time and energy expenditures

Question 8

During a mentorship relationship, which action by the mentor best illustrates the competency of surrendering?

A) Aiming to rid the relationship of anxiety related to the mentor's authority
B) Realizing when to end the current relationship
C) Pushing the mentee beyond the boundaries of comfort
D) Offering valuable opportunities with no expectation of reciprocation

Question 9

When applying the Barker-Sullivan Model of Mentor Partnerships, which factor serves as the basis for selection of a mentor by the nurse practitioner (NP) student?

A) Existing competencies
B) Mutual attraction
C) Discreet communication
D) Self-reflection

Question 10

Discuss the value of peer mentoring for the nurse practitioner (NP) who has recently completed a doctor of nursing practice (DNP) program.

Question 11

How does a preceptor differ from a mentor?

Question 12

Write down three professional or career objectives or goals that you want to work on.

Question 13

Identify one or two people you consider as possible mentors to help reach those goals.

Question 14

How will you discuss forming a mentor relationship with the person you think best suited to your goals and personality?