High School Shadowing 101: Tips and Tricks

So it's your first day shadowing (Whoo!!). If you're anything like me, you are anxious about the experience, worried about what you might see, or nervous about speaking with doctors. Fear not, because although shadowing may be a little stressful at first, it's all about uncovering your likes and dislikes. Further, as a high schooler, you will likely be the youngest person in the clinic or hospital department. Here are a few tips to help you navigate your time shadowing

Get a shadowing journal

This is the most important item to have during your shadowing journey. Get a small notebook, that can be hand-held, and carry it throughout our time shadowing. Take it everywhere you go and don't let it go! This notebook will keep track of all your thoughts, patient interactions, anything new you learn, or any questions you may have. Start each page with a date as well as the location/doctor's name, that way you can have a good record of your actions. You can write down anything you would like except the identification information of patients. This would become a HIPPAA violation as the patient's privacy is compromised. You may consider getting a tablet or using your phone but I do not recommend this approach. Sure, it's more convenient, but it doesn't feel the same for those around you. You look distracted, and out of the loop, and many doctors are older than you and will not understand your intentions. Stick with the paper for now. Make sure to bring multiple pens!

You aren't expected to know medical information

One of the most common worries is that you will be asked about your current medical knowledge. Or maybe the doctor will have expectations about your knowledge of medical terminology and shorthand expressions. These are all false. By explaining that you are a high school student, automatically, the doctor is aware that you don't have a medical foundation. Many times, the doctor themselves will explain the procedure or process they are doing with you, so you feel more comfortable and can follow along. If not, just speak up and ask about what you don't understand.

Get contact information ASAP

I recommend getting the contact information of the clinic or hospital advisor as soon as possible. Even better, getting the doctor's contact information. Ask for their card which will have all the info you need. This will allow you to contact the clinic in case you aren't able to make a shadowing schedule or ask them for recommendation letters in the future.

Establish yourself beyond the doctor

It's super important to remember that you are a guest in the clinical space. Anytime you meet a new person, greet them kindly and explain a little about yourself. Everyone there is trying to help you so don't be afraid to speak up. Speak with techs, nurses, front office staff, and patients. Many times, getting closer to the doctor is a lot harder simply because they don't have too much downtime. During my volunteering at the ER, I got closest to the ER security guard who told me so much about the environment and his patients.

Always ask for pa tient approval

If you are in the presence of patients, it's critical to introduce yourself and ask for their approval. Anytime you enter an examination room, address yourself with something like "Hi I'm Atiksh, I am shadowing Dr. XYZ. Would it be okay to watch your check-up?" Many times, the doctor might introduce the patient to you as well. You should still speak and address the patient and make your presence well known. This will take away from the confusion and, many times, the patient will support your efforts by giving you more information about themselves or talking directly to you.

Dress to impress

It's important to remember that the clinical space is professional. Wearing business casual attire is important to showing your interest and keeping a professional appeal to your presence. If you have scrubs provided by a club or organization, or maybe a doctor's coat, you can also wear that. Make sure to wear close-toed shoes and ask about the clinic mask policy. Most clinics still require masks so make sure you wear one.

Items to bring

Water bottle
Pens and Journal
Extra masks
A smile

Final Thoughts

Shadowing is meant to be an eye-opening experience. You might love your time spent, or you might hate it. Make sure you document everything on your first day because all your emotions will be at their strongest. Embrace the Medical Journey, and you might even make new friends along the way!