Overshadow a nurse after interview

[MaravillosaRN]

I was told that part of my interview was overshadowing a nurse for a little while. What is that all about? Did anyone had to do that before? If so what was it like and how long was it for? Is there any skills that I should be practicing beforehand? Although I'm a new grad nurse, I don't want to look clueless

[netglow, ASN, RN]

It is called "shadowing". This will let you get a look at how the nurses on the floor do things. You need to be really alert and take everything in. That means see what the vibe is on the unit. That is really important. Does everybody seem to be about to scream or cry at any moment? Do they seem to have supplies? Watch the EMR, does it seem people have trouble getting the computers to work? Check out the UAPs as well, what is the relationship like between the nurses and the UAPs. It might be that you are actually getting a chance to meet a future preceptor. See how that person reacts to you being assigned to them for that day/days. Are they PO'd? or are they welcoming. Does everybody just ignore your presence?

Remember these things sound very simple. But they are key to your ability to learn and grow. Be sure you don't discount what you see and hear! Shadowing is so very important.

[Lifeofanurse]

I did a shadow shift. Knew 2 hours in it wasn't the shift for me.

Of course I stayed and finished the shift but knew as a new grad..I couldn't do what the seasoned nurses were doing with the ratios they were doing it with.

Maybe a slower shift...or less chaotic environment but surely not a busy 6a-2p. I just couldn't give my clients the care they need and deserve.

The place I shadowed was nice. The hr rep was super great about saying...this is what to expect on this shift. If you can do it, want to do it ok...if not that 's okay to. we rarely hire new grads for this shift because of the chaos. But if you say no you can't it isn't held against you. We can keep you in mind for other shifts that come available.

I was grateful that they gave me the oppty to see what it was like before hiring me, giving me a 3 day orient and throwing me to the wolves...lol.

Shadowing is a great way to see if the place is for you, shift is for you and somewhere you want to work...as well as they see you, listen to the questions you have...learn more about your personality. You can't usually give care...just shadow...but you learn alot.