Patients undergoing bone marrow transplant (BMT) require complex and skilled nursing care. BMT nurse preceptors are committed to educating new nurses and can also bestow their wealth of knowledge upon their colleagues by providing educational sessions. A comprehensive view of the many challenges that a BMT patient faces can give oncology nurses an understanding of the physical, emotional and psychosocial needs of patients and families. BMT nurse preceptors were asked to provide a presentation detailing elements of the transplant process. It was identified that oncology nurses weren't always aware of the full extent of patient's experience prior to entering their unit or area. In addition, the inpatient and outpatient arenas seemed disconnected. BMT nurse preceptors planned a formal presentation using the concept of virtual patient scenarios. BMT nurse preceptors from sister units and the BMT Clinical Nurse Specialist created a PowerPoint presentation titled "The Journey of a BMT Patient: Sailing in Uncharted Waters". Entry into the cancer hospital was the initial focus with photographs showing members of the BMT team. Detailed timelines, scheduled appointments, tests, psychological and psychosocial evaluation were communicated. Topics discussed were: autologous transplant; allogeneic transplant; matched unrelated donor transplant; pheresis procedures for each type of recipient; storage of cells; chemotherapy preparative regimens; role of the BMT nurse; complications; length of stay; discharge procedure; and clinic follow up. BMT nurse preceptors emphasized the impact on patients and families/caregivers, along with clinical components, providing nurses with a comprehensive view of what this patient population faces. In response to positive feedback from the oncology preceptors, educational sessions were provided for all oncology nurses within the hospital. The BMT nurses received high scores and praise from their peers and other cancer hospital personnel. Oncology nurses can gain a wealth of knowledge from one other. Following the journey of a specific patient population provides a realistic and human concept of the experience. Oncology nurses see what their colleagues experience every day. Preceptors use their educator roles not only to teach orientees, but also to expand colleagues' knowledge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]