It has been said that “in theory, there is no difference between practice and theory. But, in practice, there is.” This quote may best explain the reality shock phenomena in nursing.
Reality shock is the reaction of new graduate nurses when they discover that the work situation that they have prepared for does not exactly operate within the values and ideals they had anticipated. As a preceptor, understanding and recognizing the phases of reality shock will assist you in helping your preceptee to successfully work through these phases.
Honeymoon Phase
Preceptee’s Behavior
· high energy
· fascinated by the newness of the experience
· focused on skill mastery and fitting into new role
Preceptor’s Role
· harness energy and enthusiasm for learning
· be realistic, but do not put out their fire
· assist in socialization and integration into their new culture
Shock Phase
Preceptee’s Behavior
· experience frustration with conflicting values/practice
· generally become negative
Preceptor’s Role
· offer support — be a good, nonjudgmental listener
· offer objective points of view by acknowledging negative and highlighting the positives
Recovery Phase
Preceptee’s Behavior
· lessened tension/anxiety
· objectively evaluates situations
· differentiates between effective/ineffective behavior
Preceptor’s Role
· assist in seeing the positives
· support participation in improving the work environment
Resolution Phase
Preceptee’s Behavior
· understands/accepts role in work environment/culture
· conflicts resolved between school/work cultures
Preceptor’s Role
· assist in use of new coping skills
· acknowledge milestones