A Review of Development Initiatives for Pharmacy Student and Resident Preceptors

Abstract

Objective. To review the published literature describing and evaluating pharmacy student and resident preceptor development. Findings. Database searches yielded 32 published articles on pharmacy preceptor development: 22 for experiential preceptors, eight for resident preceptors, and two encompassing both experiential and resident preceptors. The identified articles covered a variety of preceptor development strategies, including live, web-based, and multifaceted approaches, which were disseminated via analytical studies, needs assessment surveys, and descriptive reports. In analytical studies, the evaluation methods most commonly used were preceptor pre- and post-perception surveys. Summary. Preceptor development strategies vary among pharmacy schools and residency programs. The evaluation methods used also varied, and there is a lack of evidence-based practices related to preceptor development. Preceptor development should be tailored based on preceptor type and program needs. An opportunity exists to further evaluate which strategies are most effective for improving precepting techniques, with an ultimate goal of delineating best practices for pharmacy preceptor development.

Keywords: continuing education; experiential education; preceptor development.

Figure 1.

Study Design Flow Chart