Shadowing as a Graduate Nurse

[Ms Petite 93]

Hi everyone!! I am currently enrolled in an RN residency program and according to my schedule for two weeks I'll be shadowing on a med surgical floor. During these two weeks the units I'l be circulating around will make their decision regarding if they are wiling to hire me on that specific floor. We can not do any invasive procedures such as IV lines or Foley insertion. We can pass medications however nurse has to be at the bedside. We are literally joined at the hip with the nurse during shadowing before we start orientation. I wanted advice from nurses regarding how I can be the best shadower for the nurse on the floor. I don't want to step on any toes however, I care to make a good impression for possible hire on the floor. Any tips and suggestions?? I just feel minimized in what I can do during this shadowing experience as far as independence and performing nursing interventions. I know to ask questions, look interested, try to help in any way that I can.....Thank you in advance!!!

Signed,

Anxious Graduate Nurse

[Cat365]

Sounds like you already have a good plan.

[Extra Pickles]

looks like you already pretty much know what is expected, so that's a good start! Since you have to be working so very closely with the nurse you are shadowing it would be good to keep in mind to remember to ask questions thoughtfully (think before speak!) and really listen to the answers. Cuts down on rambling chatter that the nurse you are following will not have the time or maybe even mental endurance to handle. I'm sure she will appreciate questions for which she can provide meaningful answers.

I'm thinking mostly along these lines at the moment because I'm thinking of a recent student who followed me around and was non-stop chatter about absolutely everything. She asked lots of questions and while I don't want to sound like an ogre the constant questions about the simplest things became annoying, and fast. If you're curious about a course or treatment or a med, give it a quick In Your Own Head think, see if you already know the answer. Don't ask why a patient has a wound vac when you know the patient is there for treatment of a draining wound, and you know what a wound vac is. It won't impress the nurse if you start rattling off the benefits of a wound vac, she already knows them :-)

Be observant. If at the end of your time together you've noticed something in particular she does well or something she's taught you that means something to you, say so. It's always nice when the person who is "joined at the hip" with you realizes that they gained a valuable experience! Don't blow smoke up her butt lol but do tell her what about your time together you most appreciated. A considerate and appreciative potential hire is going to get looked at a whole lot faster than the potential hire who either looks bored or can't shut up :-) Good luck!

[HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD]

At the beginning of each shift, work with your RN to establish a plan for the day. Find out what s/he wants you to accomplish & when the tasks need to be done. This will (hopefully) change the dynamic to one of teamwork rather than simply following and watching. It will be much more satisfying for you - and from your nurse's perspective, you're an asset rather than an extra burden.

[Ms Petite 93]

Thanks everyone for your suggestions !!:). I will definitely follow through.