Guidance for Preceptors

Use this checklist to guide student orientation on the first day of supervised practice. Initial each item as completed.

• Welcome & Introductions
  • Introduce student to staff and team members.
  • Provide tour of the facility (work areas, break rooms, restrooms, emergency exits).
• Administrative Details
  • Confirm student schedule (start/end times, rotation length).
  • Review dress code and professional appearance expectations.
  • Explain parking, building access, and security procedures.
• Policies & Procedures
  • Review facility policies (confidentiality, HIPAA/FERPA, safety, sanitation).
  • Discuss communication expectations (reporting absences, contacting preceptor).
  • Clarify use of phones, email, and personal devices during practice.
• Learning Objectives
  • Review rotation-specific learning objectives and competencies.
  • Explain evaluation methods and timelines (verbal feedback, written evaluations).
  • Discuss student responsibilities for assignments and paperwork.
• Work Environment
  • Explain daily workflow and expectations for participation.
  • Identify key resources (manuals, policies, reference materials).
  • Outline opportunities for observation, shadowing, and hands-on practice.
• Safety & Emergency Procedures
  • Review emergency exits, fire alarms, and evacuation routes.
  • Explain procedures for reporting accidents or incidents.
  • Discuss infection control and food safety protocols.
• Closing
  • Answer student questions.
  • Set expectations for the next day/week.
  • Confirm student understands orientation materials.

• Set the tone early
  • Welcome students warmly and provide a quick tour to reduce anxiety.
  • Share your own career path briefly to help students see the bigger picture.

1. Absence or Tardiness

• Students must notify the preceptor in advance and communicate the absence to the Practicum Instructor.
• All missed hours must be made up at the convenience of the preceptor.
• Absence and tardiness may result in corrective or disciplinary action.

2. Emergency Absence

• Students must contact both the preceptor and the Practicum Instructor prior to the scheduled start time.

3. Inappropriate Dress

• Preceptors may need to reinforce professional dress expectations directly.

4. Personal Phone Use

• Cell phones may only be used as professional resources or for emergencies.
• Seek preceptor permission if an emergency call is necessary.

5. Negative or Unprofessional Behavior

• Address inappropriate behavior promptly with clear expectations.
• Consult the Practicum Instructor if additional support is needed.

6. Excessive Knowledge Gaps

• Students must review and strengthen knowledge if gaps are identified.
• Preceptors are not expected to teach missing content; contact the Practicum Instructor for remediation support.

7. Personality Conflicts

• Discuss conflicts with the Practicum Instructor if they interfere with the learning environment.

• Confidentiality of Records: Student educational records are protected under FERPA. Do not share grades or evaluations outside authorized channels.
• Professional Communication: Discuss student performance only in appropriate professional settings.
• Electronic Privacy: Use university-approved systems for submitting evaluations and documentation.
• Access to Information: Only individuals with legitimate educational interest should have access to student records.
• Student Rights: Students have the right to review their own educational records. Provide timely feedback.
• Practical Reminders: Keep documentation secure and dispose of printed materials properly.