Who is a preceptor in a medical setting?

A preceptor in a medical setting serves as a mentor or guide for another staff member, typically someone who is in training or new to the profession. This mentorship involves helping the trainee develop their skills and knowledge through hands-on experience and supervision. Preceptors play a crucial role in the education and professional growth of their mentees, offering insights and support as they navigate real-world scenarios in healthcare.

The relationship between the preceptor and the trainee is foundational to effective learning, ensuring that new practitioners can provide safe and competent care. This role also fosters a collaborative learning environment, which is essential in complex medical settings where team dynamics are critical for patient outcomes. The other options, such as a patient, a medical equipment technician, or a financial advisor, do not fulfill the educational and mentorship functions associated with being a preceptor in healthcare.