Embracing Challenges When Co-Precepting Pharmacy Students

Abstract

Many residency programs have adopted formal training in clinical preceptorship as an additional opportunity for professional development. However, a balance must be struck between acting as a co-preceptor for pharmacy students and as a learner being precepted by a more experienced practitioner. A commonly utilized method for demonstrating skill in the 4 preceptor roles (direct instruction, modeling, coaching, and facilitating) is to co-precept students during a learning experience with the support of a preceptor or experiential mentor. The transition from learner to teacher can present many challenges. Awareness of some of the more common challenges and a review of hypothetical scenarios may promote proactive dialogue with the experienced preceptor and promote confidence as the resident embarks on a co-precepting assignment. The objective of this article is to present scenarios a resident may encounter when co-precepting students, focusing on professionalism, patient care, providing feedback, planning, and communication, and strategies for addressing potential challenges.