Attitude and willingness of registered nurses on precepting nursing students at a selected tertiary hospital, ajman, UAE

Background: Preceptorship plays a pivotal role in bridging the gap between theory and practice in nursing education. The willingness and attitude of registered nurses toward precepting nursing students significantly influence the quality of clinical learning. However, multiple factors, including workload, role clarity, and institutional support, may affect nurses’ engagement in preceptorship. Aim: This study aimed to assess the attitude and willingness of registered nurses to precept nursing students and to determine the association between these factors and selected demographic variables. Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted among 132 registered nurses at a tertiary hospital in Ajman, UAE. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including t-tests, ANOVA, and regression analysis. Results: The findings revealed that 74.2% of the participants demonstrated a favourable attitude toward precepting nursing students, with a mean attitude score of 98.28 ± 8.44. High levels of agreement were observed in positive statements such as applying theory to practice, involving students in clinical teaching, and feeling professionally motivated. However, concerns emerged regarding workload, routine disruption, patient safety, and role preparedness. No statistically significant association was found between nurses’ attitudes and demographic variables (p > 0.05), and regression analysis indicated a weak predictive relationship (R² = 0.091). Conclusion: While registered nurses showed strong professional commitment toward preceptorship, their willingness was moderated by organizational and workload-related barriers. Institutional interventions, such as preceptor training, role definition, and administrative support, are essential to enhance nurses’ engagement in student mentorship.