I'm a pre-nursing student who is also working fulltime. But I noticed that, by golly, I only have to work 5-days a week. Is there any value to using some of that free time shadowing? Or do I just wind up as a pain to the nurses while not really spending enough time to learn anything?
pharmgirl 446 Posts Specializes in ER, ICU, Medsurg. Apr 2, 2009 I think shadowing is invaluable. You would be amazed what you can pick up on if you are observant and ask questions. If you get a good nurse that doesn't mind answering questions it can be a great experience. The only thing that might be a problem is if between class/work/shadowing you dont have time for studying.Good Luck!!!
is5512 82 Posts Apr 2, 2009 Thanks! But I am terrified of wasting other people's time, so I have to ask: Is it appropriate to shadow just one shift (8 or 12 hours), or should I plan on doing it both days off for something like a month. I mean, I'm curious about different specialties, but I don't want to be half-baked about this.
Tweety, BSN, RN 32,973 Posts Specializes in Med-Surg, Trauma, Ortho, Neuro, Cardiac. Has 31 years experience. Apr 2, 2009 I know shadowing is valuable, but it's not a common practice. If you already know you want to be a nurse, why shadow? You're going to learn enough in clinicals to see how nurses operate and get experience in various areas.
pharmgirl 446 Posts Specializes in ER, ICU, Medsurg. Apr 2, 2009 I wouldn't go and ask a nurse if you can shadow for entire semester, or even a month. Like Tweety said, you are going to get enough at clinicals. However, shadowing for a day or two would be beneficial to actually see the "real world" without having an instructor breathing down your neck. Just make sure to get a "good" nurse or one you know will answer questions and not be "put out". Some nurses love students, some nurses hate them.
