shadow exp

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This may or may not be a dumb question, I'm not sure :D.

Anyways, I'm shadowing a CRNA coming up.

This will be round 2 for me. Having previously shadowed a CRNA, and also being in the OR during my "off-unit experience" in clinical, has 100% confirmed CRNA is what I want to do.

Question is, for CRNA school interview purposes, do I need proof or anything that I have shadowed? Has anyone been asked for specific documentation by the schools? I didn't do this my first time around...just curious if I should this time. I feel like the schools would ask for proof because it seems like without it, everyone would just be saying "ya...sure...I shadowed" when really they may have not.

Input? Thanks.

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Specializes in Intensive Care (SICU, NICU, CICU, VICU).

It depends on the school. One school I applied to wanted proof of my shadow experience. Another required the CRNA to fill out a section of my application. I recommend checking with the school you will be applying to. But it won't hurt to go ahead and get it this time around.

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Specializes in ICU.

The answer to this question depends upon the schools you will be applying to. I had one school that requested documentation of shadowing time. All the other schools simply asked if I had shadowed CRNAs and then asked how many hours of shadowing time I had done. Every school is different in what they require. So, it's not a bad idea to make a simple spreadsheet/table where you can fill out where, when, and with whom you shadowed. I would even have the CRNA sign your documentation that way if it is a requirement you already have it. Good luck!

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Hi there

I am currently shadowing a CRNA and will have over 40+ hours when I'm done. I would like to know what is sufficient enough hours to look competitive when I apply to schools or should it depend on what we learned? At this point, I have a good idea about what they do from start to finish with various procedures and techniques. I made notes, kept a journal and wrote down what I learned, etc... but will not have any letters of recs from a CRNA as I shadowed in 2 facilities with one out-of-state, though my school provided me with a facility hour log for them to sign, which I'm hoping is sufficient enough as getting a letter of rec is tough. I was told from the OR RN who worked with him that the more hours will look good. I have 2 more days to shadow sadly.

I'm asking this because the current CRNA that I'm shadowing "eats his young/hazing".

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Specializes in Critical Care & Acute Care.

It sounds like you have plenty of hours. Try to connect with one of the CRNAs and make a contact so you can get a reference. More time looks better but once you are past a day or two it doesn't matter. Shadowing shoes initiative, willingness to go above and beyond, and that you know what you are getting into. Sounds like you are on the right track!

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