Getting your own preceptor / shadows

allnurses Guide · Sep 2, 2015

So I am still in the process of researching if I want to try to switch to this new role of being an NP, and at this point Im 95% sure I want to. Now its a question of where and with that Im looking between online vs bricks and mortars. In many ways I prefer a traditional bricks and mortar school but the simple fact is I work in a night position that gives me hours to do study, and it would be very difficult to always be off for class as I work in a very small department. So an online option of some sort will probably be best, but Im not keen on the idea of finding my own preceptors, especially as I think I read here one should try to have those lined up even before starting school?
So my current role is as a NICU / PICU transport role. I plan on becoming an FNP, hopefully to work in a clinic, or ED. But because of my current role I really dont interact with those types much. Even when going to EDs Im usually getting very sick kids and dont have a chance to chit chat or interact with NPs. So first off I'd like to set up a shadow day with an NP in an ED some place just to shadow before I ever apply. How do I go about doing this, let alone setting up my own preceptors for the future? Any thoughts / advice welcomed.
Felix

Good morning, I moved your post to the Student NP forums to get the best response.

Congratulations on preparing yourself for a whole new world of nursing.

Personally and professionally I am a believer in quality brick and mortar programs. I feel there is are important aspects to attending a B&M program, but I also understand that isn't always possible. I do advise potential students to consider their investment in themselves and their future, both in time and money, and consider that against their reason for not choosing a B&M program, provided they have access to a quality one.

I am also of the belief that quality preceptorships are vital to the success of a novice NP; personally, I would not pay for a program that put that burden on the student. That being said, many quality programs have gone the route of no securing preceptorships, unfortunately. There are online programs at do assist in securing preceptorships and this would likely be our best option.

Shadowing is the best thing you can do! Try and shadow in a number of different settings. You can reach out to current NPs through your state NP association if you don't have a direct connection with any practicing NPs.

Good luck!

Dranger · Sep 2, 2015

The vast majority of programs do not secure preceptors for you and that includes brick and mortar. It's a real pain for sure.

Dranger · Sep 8, 2015

If I had a chance I would go to a brick and mortar school. Problem is, my state has one ACNP program at our flagship university and it is ridiculously expensive (almost as bad as my private undergrad) and only offers DNP now.

anh06005, MSN, APRN, NP · Sep 8, 2015

Look into local B&M schools. Many of them are mostly online and require only a few class meetings per semester because most realize the students will likely be working as a RN while going through the program.

This way you still have the convenience of online but have real people you can meet with if you need help.

applesxoranges, BSN, RN · Sep 14, 2015

Well, I go to a school with a physical campus but they have their NP program mostly online. They have clinical days and pay for professional "medical" models where all they do is basically practice exams on them. The school will help with placements but leave it ultimately up to the student to secure a clinical. More and more schools are doing this, even the traditional on campus programs.