Things to take away from shadowing a nurse?

That Guy, BSN, RN, EMT-B · Jul 19, 2010

Do not just sit there and watch! Ask lots of questions. When you ask questions it shows you are paying attention to what they are doing and shows interest in the day/activities/etc. Dont ask too many questions that you become annoying but ask away

Lennonninja, MSN, APRN, NP · Jul 19, 2010

I've done a lot of shadowing this summer while I've been a nurse intern. One of the things that I hadn't thought about has actually become one of the most useful things I've learned this summer. I watch how different nurses organize themselves for the day, and how they give and receive report. This is helping me learn what the most important details are and now I can just carry 1 or 2 sheets of paper around all day instead of a clipboard with like 9 or 10 sheets of paper for each patient.

CBsMommy · Jul 19, 2010

I don't overly ask questions and I ALWAYS make sure that I throw in quite a few compliments into the mix! Even some of the "meanest" nurses will lighten up a lot if you tell them that you love how they did this or that....and mean it. Don't do it just to do it.

Never be afraid to jump at an opportunity!

mell260 · Jul 19, 2010

I don't overly ask questions and I ALWAYS make sure that I throw in quite a few compliments into the mix! Even some of the "meanest" nurses will lighten up a lot if you tell them that you love how they did this or that....and mean it. Don't do it just to do it.
Never be afraid to jump at an opportunity!

Without taking any nursing classes, I feel like I won't really know a lot of what they're doing....So I don't want to inundate them with questions, ya know?

NeoNurseTX, RN · Jul 19, 2010

Without knowing much about nursing, you may not take as much from shadowing as you would if you've done a few clinicals. I would take away how your nurse manages his/her time and prioritizes care. Notice how she gets as much done possible making the least amount of trips to the supply room, etc.