Abstract
This descriptive study assessed current registered nurse (RN) preceptor perceptions of professional competencies in new nursing graduates. Strengths in caring and compassion were observed by preceptors, in addition to deficiencies in time management and prioritization. Inasmuch as deficiencies observed by RN preceptors may be functions of time and experience, it is recommended that academic nurse educators and residency program educators explore and develop means to improve students' skills in prioritization and time management.