Three Types of Support Relationships
December 1, 1999
Three Types of Support Relationships
I. Precepting. Used to acquaint new nurses to their environment, it is a formal teaching assignment usually given to an experienced bedside nurse and lasts for a limited time period as determined by managers. Preceptors assist new nurses in learning specific procedures involving patient care.
II. Sponsoring. A form of support and coach- ing aimed at "facilitating the growth of a pro- tégé [inexperienced nurse] within the organi- zation," it is a less formal or instructional function than precepting or mentoring, and therefore more guidance and advocacy- oriented.
III. Mentoring. A higher-functioning relationship than sponsoring, but less formal and educa- tional than precepting, it is mainly a long-term relationship between an experienced nurse and another nurse that is characterized by sustained interaction, communication, and compatibility.
The interaction may not be constant, regular, or nursing-specific; and the communication can be conducted over long distances. The mentor serves as a role model and guide.
In all three, there are varying degrees of role modeling and coaching.
Source: The Mentoring Committee of the Illinois Organization of Nurse Leaders, Carbondale, IL.
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