Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) CBT Practice Test

For a nurse to successfully lead a student nurse in skills development, the preceptor must display what key quality?

1. Strict adherence to rules

2. Strong leadership skills

3. Ability to delegate tasks effectively

4. Confidence in independent practice

The correct answer is: Ability to delegate tasks effectively

A successful preceptor guiding a student nurse in their skills development must demonstrate the ability to delegate tasks effectively. This quality is crucial because effective delegation not only enhances the learning experience for the student nurse but also encourages their growth and independence. By delegating appropriate tasks, the preceptor helps the student to take on responsibilities that match their current skill level while also challenging them to develop new competencies. Effective delegation promotes autonomy and critical thinking as the student becomes more involved in patient care processes. It creates an environment where the student can engage actively with real-life scenarios, allowing them to build confidence and competence through practice. Furthermore, a preceptor who delegates well can manage their own workload while ensuring that the student nurse feels supported and guided in their learning journey. The other qualities mentioned, such as strong leadership skills, while important, do not encompass the specific interaction and development process that effective delegation does. Delegation involves not only leadership but also the trust and understanding necessary for fostering a learning atmosphere. Confidence in independent practice is more of an outcome of effective mentoring rather than a direct quality that facilitates student development during training.