Abstract
Objective: To identify the potential and challenges in the exercise of preceptorship in the supervised hospital internship of undergraduate nursing. Methods: Exploratory, descriptive study with a qualitative and quantitative approach, carried out from May to June 2018, at a University Hospital in the state of Rio Grande do Norte. Data collection involved responses to a questionnaire from 21 nurse preceptors. For data analysis and interpretation, three steps were followed: pre-analysis of responses, exploration of material and construction of collective discourse. For statistical analysis, the Alceste 4.9 software was used. Results: The experiences in the preceptorship were perceived as satisfactory by the nurses and the results were grouped into four thematic categories: potentialities, difficulties, suggestions and experiences. The challenges identified were mainly related to the lack of training of professionals and protocols to develop supervision, the duplication of functions during the preceptor's activities and the disarticulation between the educational institution and service. Conclusion: The ability and ease of communication between preceptors and students was highlighted as potential for the exercise of preceptorship. Regarding the duplication of functions, the disarticulation between the educational institution and the service were challenges.