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Should you shadow someone who is already a nurse

I want to gain knowledge on being a nurse , such as should I shadow , sign up for internships talk to someone who is a nurse and the best route I should go. #thinking #bestroute #nursing

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Gaurav D.’s Answer

Hi Jayeln,

Absolutely, don't just shadow one nurse, shadow multiple nurses within different hospitals, settings, times and areas. Ask tons of questions to understand why that individual likes to be a nurse, what joy they receive, the pros and cons, the pay, the upward mobility, the flexibility of the job, why they chose this profession. Be incredibly curious and if you don't know something ask. There are other specialities you can specialize in as a nurse and that might be something you can also consider. Also take into account the amount of schooling, debt, loans you have to take on to fully understand what it takes to pursue a career within this profession. Try to look at each career opportunity holistically. Good luck!
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Simeon’s Answer

Yes, any opportunity you can get to shadow someone in the profession should be taken. You'll learn a lot about the human side of the job, with all the stresses and difficulties that come with being in a hospital. It'll give you a much better idea of the path you'll want to take in the healthcare industry overall.
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Dr. Naomi E.’s Answer

Shadowing a nurse is one of the best ways to determine if a career in nursing is the right fit for you. It gives you an opportunity to spend time on the job with a nurse as he/she goes about their daily tasks. You will be able to see how nurses work with various types of patients and see various medical conditions and experience how a medical team works together. Connect with several different nurses and speak with them about their job. If you have a primary care provider, ask about speaking with the nurses in that office. Most people happy in their careers will be happy to do so. Ask them any and all questions about their job.
Volunteering at hospitals or clinics can be a great way to show your passion for the nursing profession. Most hospitals and clinics appreciate volunteers. Volunteering can also provide the opportunity to shadow nursing staff. While volunteering you can take advantage of the opportunity to immerse yourself in a medical surrounding. This will give you a glimpse into the nursing career.
Use the power of the Internet. The world of nursing is online with numerous forums and blogs. Nurses share plenty of tips and stories on these sites and connect with others who are looking to enter the profession. Visit internet sites for nursing organizations such as the American Nurses Association which can provide opportunities to connect with nurses.
Wishing you the best!
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Yasemin’s Answer

Hi Jayelyn! Yes definitely shadow! In most careers especially healthcare it is important to see the professional who is working in that career. This gives you an idea of what you will encounter as well, what their daily life is like, how they overcome obstacles, how did they become successful--among other things. Make sure to ask questions as well, many times it is medical procedures you may see, but ask the nurse you are shadowing how they got there, what made them decide nursing, and any obstacles they faced? I say this because of my adviser and also from my own personal shadowing- while it is interesting to see medical procedures, you will already encounter these in school and training therefore it is important to see the empathetic side of medicine. See how the nurses interact with the patients and focus on their traits and characteristics that help them in nursing! It will also help in answering questions as well, during interviews or applications for nursing school. I would recommend maybe during high school or college to get started! It can be harder maybe if you are not 18, if that is the case then wait until college!

I hope this helps!

Best of luck!
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Molly’s Answer

I think it is a great idea to shadow or observe a nurse. Every hospital has a Nursing Education or Nursing Professional Practice department who can set you up with an experience. The options are numerous. Med/Surg adult, ICU, ED, Pediatrics, Neonatal ICU, Acute Care Rehabilitation, Surgical services ( Operating room, Cardiac Cath Lab, etc.). Hope this helps.
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Eric’s Answer

Yes, you should absolutely shadow. Shadow as wide a variety of nursing jobs as you are able. Two of my children are now nurses, and they both shadowed even before starting college. For one, it confirmed what she already felt she wanted to do. For the other, it was more exploratory, and he came home and said he had found his career path. It is also a great way to get to know experienced persons in your field of choice who might become mentors for you as you progress through school and get started at your first job, so try to stay in touch with them afterwards.

Good luck,

Eric
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