Nurse Shadow

[Drexel2k10]

Hello! I went in for an interview and was invited to attend a shadow session. Is this a good sign? What are the expectations of a nurse shadowing? Do I ask alot of questions, perform simple tasks such as vitals? What are the nonos in shadowing? I really want this job and its at a phenomianl facility and I would like to seal the deal on the day I shadow! Thanks felllow nurses for any advice you can offer!!!!

[ckh23, BSN, RN]

If you are not yet an employee, you will not be doing anything while shadowing. Shadowing will give you an opportunity to see how things work on the unit and the types of patients you may be seeing. The shadowing experience will give you a general idea as to if the job is what you thought and expected. Ask questions that you have about the unit and the patient populations, relationships with the doctors, etc. If this a job you really want than show your eagerness and enthusiasm. The rest of the nursing staff will be evaluating you as well.

[KelRN215, BSN, RN]

When you shadow, you do just that. You're a shadow. You cannot do things like VS or other "simple tasks" because you're not yet an employee of that institution. Follow the nurse you're assigned to. Get a feel for how things work. Ask questions.

[Been there,done that, ASN, RN]

Agree with previous comments.

However, I would keep the questions to a succinct few.

And SMILE, SMILE SMILE!!! They are looking for someone that will fit in.

Good luck.

[Drexel2k10]

Thanks everyone for all the advice! I'll do just that. I had no idea what to expect so thanks again for shedding light on the question!