Shadowing?

I am applying to accelerated nursing programs right now (2nd degree options). I know this is what I want to do (nursing) but just would really like the chance to shadow a nurse and just see what a day is like. I can talk to every nurse I know but I wont really know what it's like without observing what they deal with. Before anyone says get a CNA job, I work in finance right now and cannot afford to give up this job and my salary - I need this money to put aside to PAY for nursing school (and all my lost wages while I'm not working during school - we've got a mortgage to pay, etc).

Wondering if it's possible to shadow a nurse? From what I hear, it's tricky w/ HIPAA...anyone have any advice?

Thanks!

ETA - I put this in the Mass section because I'm in MA and thought MA people/nurses may know the laws here (perhaps they differ from state to state).