Factors that influence the preceptor role: a comparative study of Saudi and expatriate nurses

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare expatriate and Saudi nursing staff’s perceptions of factors that influence their role as preceptors of nursing students. Methods: Descriptive comparative study using a self-administered survey was completed by a convenience sample of eligible nurses (n=285). It was conducted in five different hospitals within the Ministry of Health in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Results: Most preceptors were expatriate nurses (70.5%), while Saudi preceptors represented only 29.5%. The findings show that there is a difference between Saudi and expatriate nurses in their perception of the role, that cultural factors influence the role of expatriate preceptors and that organisational factors influence both groups. Conclusions: Expatriate preceptors felt that there were cultural obstacles that hindered their role. These findings will contribute to the development of a more contemporary and culturally sensitive preceptorship model.