Shadowing in the ED?

I'm a nursing student in a hospital-based diploma program. I have a strong interest in working in the ED, and I'd really like to spend some time in the dept. this summer so I can get a better idea of what it's really like, and also to get a better idea of what pts. may experience in the ED before being admitted. I was talking with one of my instructors about this, and she said that HIPAA has made it increasingly difficult to accomodate "observers" and said that it probably wouldn't be allowed, although I should just call the ED manager directly and see if I get anywhere.

Any thoughts on how I can best approach this? I understand that my chances of being allowed to actually do any patient care are zilch, and that's OK with me - I think I'd learn a huge amount just being there.

Thanks for your help! :)

Don't let "HIPAA-phobia" stop you!

It is no different than any other teaching situation. If you are a student nurse you identify yourself and ask permission for your observation...or whatever.

We have people "shadow" in our department and unless someone is taking somenone's PHI and posting on the interent...it shoule be fine.

We have volunteers in the department...

Check with the managers and you may be surprised at how accomadating they can be.

Good Luck!

i agree check with the ED manager.

I followed my mom a respiratory therapist while I was in school and not getting paid for it....... i saw a ton of cool stuff in the ER, and that is what made me want to work there!!!

xoxo Jen

we have nursing students "shadow" also, through a hospital based "extern" program. They can do vital signs transport patients to xray, clean rooms etc. AND the best part is, they get paid for it. These are all students in their last year of school and most of them go on to find employment somewhere in the hospital after graduation. Good luck!