I will be shadowing an Anesthesiologist for the first time tomorrow morning. Its the first time I have ever shadowed a Doctor and was wondering if anyone has any advice and/or tips? Thanks!
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Shadowing an Anesthesiologist
- Thread starter theBruceWayne
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I've shadowed several anesthesiologists, and they're great people. They really do seem to care a lot about the patients they are serving. They admit though that they sometimes get picked on by the surgeons and other doctor because some think they don't do important work...but as you'll find out soon, their work is very important. As for advice, be professional, but have fun. Talk to some physicians, nurses and PAs and ask them about their experiences. Oh, and get their contact info and keep in touch with them. Good luck.
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Surgeons can't do their job without anesthesiologists. In reference to the post above, if the surgeons are jerks to the anesthesiologists its either because the surgeons are asses to everyone or its good natured ribbing which has been misinterpreted.
To the OP, be aware of the vulnerability of patients in the OR and the need to be respectful and serious. Ask before you touch anything to make sure you are not contaminating the field. Most anesthesiologists, especially those in private practice, are easygoing and love to teach. Your focus should be having fun, learning about the medical field and not specifically surgery and anesthesiology.
To the OP, be aware of the vulnerability of patients in the OR and the need to be respectful and serious. Ask before you touch anything to make sure you are not contaminating the field. Most anesthesiologists, especially those in private practice, are easygoing and love to teach. Your focus should be having fun, learning about the medical field and not specifically surgery and anesthesiology.
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Shadowing anesthesiologists is the best! Depending who you shadow, you might get to see a variety of surgical cases. Also, the best view when shadowing in surgery is often by the anesthesiologist. Ask plenty of questions, and allow them to guide you through the OR when you enter and leave. Enjoy yourself!
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Best bet of advice you will receive: DON'T touch anything blue in the operating room!
But anesthesia is cool (scares the crap out of me honestly!) you will have a good time!
Survivor DO
But anesthesia is cool (scares the crap out of me honestly!) you will have a good time!
Survivor DO
Add to the above: Be very VERY careful what you say where patients and/or family might hear you. Let the doctors do the talking.
But when the patient is under in the OR, feel free to talk with the doctor you're shadowing. Others, too. Ask questions and act interested. Just don't interrupt anyone in the middle of doing something important.
Oh, and don't touch anything. ANYTHING. I shadowed an anesthesiologist for several days, and the only thing I was allowed to touch by the end (aside from grabbing him a couple empty syringes) was the "silence alarms" button on the vent. Remember you are observing, not taking part.
But when the patient is under in the OR, feel free to talk with the doctor you're shadowing. Others, too. Ask questions and act interested. Just don't interrupt anyone in the middle of doing something important.
Oh, and don't touch anything. ANYTHING. I shadowed an anesthesiologist for several days, and the only thing I was allowed to touch by the end (aside from grabbing him a couple empty syringes) was the "silence alarms" button on the vent. Remember you are observing, not taking part.
I was lucky enough to have a guy who liked to teach premeds and help expand your network of connections within the hospital. The first day can be intimidating, but find some common ground with the doctor. Enjoy a cup of coffee with the anesthesiologist! Lastly, do not walk too close to the sterile equipment.
