Purpose of Precepting

Why do Preceptor's Matter?

Preceptors are experienced surgical technologists and surgical assistants who have worked in a variety of specialties or are designated to one particular specialty. These CST’s are fluent in most, if not all, of the cases offered at their facility. The preceptor is one of the most important contributors to the development of new surgical tech’s. Without the help and guidance of preceptors, students would not get the opportunity to gain the valuable clinical experience that is needed to become a surgical tech.

The preceptor’s knowledge is the bridge between the experienced CST and the new student. If you have ever had to scrub a new procedure blindly, you know the uneasy feeling that comes along with it. Now, compare that to the time you had a preceptor standing there with you — not to tell you everything to do, but to guide you and keep you on your toes throughout the procedure. Students need preceptors to give them a sense of accomplishment and provide proof of forward movement to their instructors. They also need honest feedback and criticism that will help them grow. Being a preceptor for students is not easy. It can be stressful and it can be somewhat annoying to have a student (especially when you can do it so much faster and better), but it can also very rewarding.