Shadowing/observing a NP before applying to NP school

Grumble88 · Mar 25, 2016

This is highly advisable to do! But a two big problems come to mind, 1 they may voice HIPPA concerns but since you are already an LVN that may not be an issue, 2 is that NPs often either don't want a student or are overburdened with students already.

if you can find some to shadow before applying definitely go for it, asking Nps you don't know very well may feel awkward but they will most likely be used to it so go for it.

allnurses Guide · Mar 25, 2016

Hello AN,
Is it possible for an LPN, RN student to shadow or observe a NP for personal reasons(not sent by a school) before applying to a NP program and mention it on your resume?
As a NP , how comfortable will you feel if an RN nursing student who works as an LPN but doesnt have a NP supervisor on her work site ask you if she could shadow you for a day or 2?
I live in Massachusetts, any mentoring programs for future NP students? Any nursing networking for NPs and future NP students?
Any insights, advices and help is very welcome !
Warmest regards,
Thank you !

You can and absolutely should shadow before thinking about NP school! There are lots of NPs in MA that will let you shadow. Do you know any from your LPN work? I have had several LPN/RNs that work in home health and frequently call my office ask to shadow and haven happily obliged.

vitiana · Mar 28, 2016

Only RN,ADN are supervisors (ADON,DON) at my work. Im seriously looking for NPs to shadow especially AGNP & FNP. I dont mind driving from west to east for a shadowing session. @BostonFNP please think about me if you have some free time and no students around. I will really appreciate it and im willing to give back and helping others in a few years.

Theloneyoni1 · Mar 29, 2016

Yes! And, I highly recommend it. I was having a difficult time deciding whether I was going to do FNP or ACNP. I shadowed a one NP in clinic at the hospital (She is a primary care NP) and I shadowed an acute care NP who worked for the same physician. Seeing how their days played out and how they practiced really helped to solidify my decision to go the acute care track. Good luck!