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Should I Take Notes While Shadowing?

Published in Shadowing Notes 4 mins read

Yes, absolutely. Taking notes while shadowing is a highly effective way to maximize your learning, demonstrate your engagement, and retain valuable information from the experience.

Why Note-Taking is Crucial During Shadowing

Note-taking during a shadowing experience transforms passive observation into active learning. It helps you solidify new concepts, remember important details, and reflect on what you've observed later. This practice shows initiative and a genuine interest in the field, making a positive impression on the professional you are shadowing.

What to Jot Down

Focus on capturing key information that will deepen your understanding and serve as a reference for future study. It's beneficial to always carry a small, unobtrusive notebook.

  • Diagnoses: Note any medical conditions or diagnoses you hear about, especially unfamiliar ones.
  • Medications: Record names of medicines prescribed or discussed, particularly those you don't recognize.
  • Symptoms: Document the symptoms described by patients or discussed by the professionals, and how they relate to diagnoses.
  • New Terminology: Write down any new vocabulary, acronyms, or jargon you encounter.
  • Procedures and Techniques: Briefly describe any procedures, examinations, or techniques you observe.
  • Questions: Jot down questions that come to mind. You can research these later or, if appropriate, ask the professional when they have a moment.
  • Reflections: Make quick notes on your own thoughts or observations about patient interactions, professional conduct, or the environment.

Best Practices for Discreet Note-Taking

While note-taking is valuable, it's essential to do so discreetly and respectfully, ensuring you don't disrupt the environment or patient privacy.

  1. Be Prepared: Always go to your shadowing experience with a small, compact notebook and a pen that are easy to access and put away quickly.
  2. Stay Unobtrusive: Avoid large binders or excessive rustling. Your note-taking should not draw attention away from the professional or the patient.
  3. Prioritize Listening: Your primary role is to observe and listen. Only jot down quick reminders or keywords, rather than attempting to transcribe entire conversations.
  4. Respect Patient Privacy: Absolutely never write down any personally identifiable patient information (e.g., names, dates of birth, exact addresses). Keep all notes anonymous.
  5. Observe the Flow: Be mindful of the situation. There will be times when it's inappropriate to write, such as during sensitive patient discussions or critical moments. Put your notebook away during these times.
  6. Ask if Unsure: If you are uncertain whether note-taking is appropriate in a specific scenario, politely ask the professional you are shadowing for guidance.

Maximizing Your Notes Post-Shadowing

The true value of your notes comes when you review and act upon them after your shadowing experience.

  • Research and Learn: When you get home, take the time to look up the diagnoses, medicines, and symptoms you noted. This active research process will significantly enhance your learning and understanding, making the experience much more enriching.
  • Organize Your Knowledge: Transfer your raw notes into a more organized format, perhaps on your computer or in a dedicated study journal. This makes it easier to review and integrate new knowledge.
  • Formulate Deeper Questions: As you research, new questions will inevitably arise. These can be excellent starting points for further self-study or for follow-up discussions if you have the opportunity.
  • Connect to Your Goals: Reflect on how your observations and notes connect to your academic or career goals. This helps you build a more coherent narrative about your interests and experiences.

Do's and Don'ts of Note-Taking During Shadowing

Do Don't
Carry a small, discreet notebook. Use a large, bulky notebook or electronic device without permission.
Jot down unfamiliar diagnoses, medications, and symptoms. Record sensitive or personally identifiable patient information.
Be subtle and respectful of the environment. Make note-taking a distraction or barrier to engagement.
Focus on keywords and quick reminders. Attempt to write down every word or transcribe conversations.
Review and research your notes afterward. Forget your notes or fail to follow up on new information.
Prioritize active listening and observation. Be more focused on writing than on the actual shadowing experience.
Ask if you're unsure about appropriate times to write. Assume it's always okay to take notes, especially during sensitive moments.

By approaching note-taking strategically and respectfully, you can transform your shadowing experience into a powerful learning opportunity that significantly contributes to your professional development. For more general advice on professional shadowing, consider consulting resources from reputable institutions like Johns Hopkins Medicine or other university career development centers specializing in pre-health advising.