The Learning Curve Susan Duffy had been head nurse at Jefferson University Hospital for two years. Before being promoted to this position, Susan was a floor nurse for eight years, working on several different floors throughout the years. Her most vivid memory was that of her first year when she met her mentor, Terry Gate, an RN for five years. Terry immediately took Susan under her wing, imparting her vast knowledge she had learned through her life and work experiences. She took seriously her responsibility of mentoring an up-and-coming RN. Susan realized that her schooling was essential to reach this point in her career but Terry's insight and instruction would be priceless. Susan remembers discussing with Terry what it was that she hoped to gain from this experience. Terry and Susan worked hand in hand, always keeping an open and honest relationship. Susan knew that someday she would want to be a mentor; sharing what she had learned to encourage and stimulate a fellow nurse as Terry had encouraged and stimulated her. As head nurse Susan's wish came true. Caroline Lange, a recent graduate, was assigned to Susan. Susan met with Caroline to give her an opportunity to communicate what she desired to gain from this experience. To Susan's dismay, Caroline made it apparent that she knew everything she needed to know. Susan was more determined than ever to establish this relationship. Realizing what a tremendous impact Terry had on her personally and professionally, Susan decided to take a different approach with Caroline. After meeting several more times, Susan successfully communicated to Caroline that she may be able to learn as much from her as Caroline may learn from her. Together they agreed that their relationship would be open and honest. Becoming a mentor was extremely important to Susan. She was committed to and willing to take all the time necessary to get to know Caroline while at the same time giving Caroline an opportunity to get to know her. This patience and extra time turned out to be the key to success in this mentoring relationship. Responding to the Case What is the role of a mentor?
If the mentor is going to be successful in providing a positive learning experience, what skills are essential?
What skills did Susan utilize while embarking on her mentoring relationship with Caroline?