The ANCHOR Preceptor Framework
A Framework Built for the Nurses Who Build Nurses
Developed by Jamie Bunn, DNP and Kate Phillips, MSN, the ANCHOR Framework is a structured, compassion-forward approach to preceptorship that transforms how healthcare organizations onboard, support, and retain new nurses.
Why ANCHOR?
Preceptors are the backbone of nurse residency and onboarding programs — yet they are often under-supported, under-prepared, and under-recognized. The ANCHOR Framework was born from years of frontline experience in emergency nursing, residency coordination, and nursing professional development. It gives preceptors a clear, evidence-based roadmap for guiding new nurses from uncertainty to confidence.
Developed by Jamie Bunn, DNP & Kate Phillips, MSN
The Six Pillars of ANCHOR
Each letter represents a core principle of effective, compassionate preceptorship.
Assess
Meet the learner where they are
Effective preceptorship begins with understanding the individual learner — their prior experience, learning style, confidence level, and goals. Assessing early and often creates a foundation of trust and sets realistic expectations for both preceptor and preceptee.
Nurture
Cultivate psychological safety
New nurses thrive in environments where they feel safe to ask questions, make mistakes, and grow. Nurturing the preceptor-preceptee relationship means showing up with empathy, patience, and consistent encouragement — especially during the hardest moments of transition.
Coach
Guide with intention and feedback
Coaching is more than teaching — it is a dynamic, ongoing dialogue. Effective preceptors use structured feedback, real-time debriefs, and reflective questioning to help new nurses develop critical thinking and clinical judgment rather than simply following protocols.
Hold
Hold space for growth and struggle
Transition shock is real. New nurses face emotional, cognitive, and physical demands unlike anything in school. Holding space means acknowledging the difficulty of the journey, normalizing struggle, and helping preceptees develop resilience without minimizing their experience.
Orient
Connect practice to purpose
Orientation is not just logistics — it is the bridge between education and practice. Orienting new nurses to the culture, values, and expectations of their unit helps them feel grounded, connected, and clear on what it means to belong to this team.
Reflect
Build a habit of intentional reflection
Reflection is the engine of professional growth. The ANCHOR Framework closes the loop by building structured reflection into the preceptorship experience — helping both preceptors and preceptees learn from every shift, celebrate progress, and continuously refine their practice.
Bring ANCHOR to Your Organization
Jamie and Kate offer workshops, keynotes, and consulting engagements built around the ANCHOR Framework. Whether you are launching a new residency program or strengthening an existing one, we can help.
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