In a groundbreaking qualitative study published in BMC Nursing, researchers led by Hara, Tachibana, and Kumashiro have explored the profound impact that undergraduate operating room shadowing has on novice nurses. The study, which took advantage of advanced AI technology, specifically ChatGPT, delves into how this hands-on experience during training contributes not only to the technical skills of aspiring nurses but also to their overall confidence and professional identity.
The researchers examined a diverse cohort of nursing students who participated in shadowing experiences, where they observed surgeries and interacted with surgical teams. This experience proved pivotal for these students as it provided them a unique glimpse into the realities of patient care and surgical processes. Observational learning during the shadowing sessions allowed them to gain insights that are often not covered in theoretical training, bridging the gap between classroom knowledge and real-world application.
One significant finding unveiled in this study is the long-lasting impact that operating room shadowing can have on the resilience of novice nurses. By actively observing the dynamics of teamwork and communication in high-pressure situations, students reported feeling more equipped to handle challenging scenarios once they entered the field as fully-fledged nurses. The study highlights how these experiences can cultivate a sense of preparedness that extends beyond basic clinical skills.
Moreover, the use of ChatGPT in this research was instrumental in analyzing qualitative data collected from participant interviews. The AI-assisted analysis allowed researchers to uncover overarching themes and nuanced feelings expressed by the students regarding their shadowing experiences. This approach not only streamlined the data evaluation process but also ensured a higher degree of analytical rigor, offering richer insights into the participants’ thoughts and reflections.
Students reported an increased sense of empathy towards patients after their shadowing experiences. Witnessing the intricacies of surgical procedures and the human aspects of care, such as patient emotions and the ethical dilemmas faced by healthcare professionals, heightened their appreciation for the nursing profession. Respondents shared personal anecdotes that illustrated how the shadowing experience profoundly changed their perception of patient care, emphasizing empathy as a crucial element in nursing.
Another dimension explored in the study was the role of mentorship during shadowing. Students highlighted that the guidance and reassurance from experienced nurses and surgeons were invaluable. This mentorship not only contributed to their technical knowledge but also played a pivotal role in fostering a supportive learning environment. The bonds formed during these shadowing experiences often led to ongoing professional relationships that extended into students’ nursing careers.
The researchers pointed out that the impact of shadowing is particularly salient in the context of today’s rapidly evolving healthcare landscape. Novice nurses face increasing demands and complexities, making hands-on experiences more critical than ever. The immersive nature of operating room shadowing equips students with adaptive skills essential for navigating their future roles amidst these challenges, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes.
Interestingly, the study emphasizes the importance of integrating such experiential learning opportunities within nursing curricula nationwide. While theoretical knowledge is fundamental, the hands-on experiences offered through shadowing can better prepare nursing students for the realities of clinical practice. The researchers advocate for educational institutions to re-evaluate their education models to include more experiential learning.
Furthermore, the implications of this study extend to policy-making in nursing education. As healthcare institutions strive for excellence in patient care, integrating structured shadowing programs into nursing education could become a critical step toward ensuring a well-prepared workforce. By recognizing the value of real-world experiences, educational policymakers could enhance nursing curricula to create a more competent and confident healthcare workforce.
The enthusiastic reception of the study’s findings among nursing educators point to a potential paradigm shift in how nursing training is delivered. Many educators are already considering adjusting their course offerings to ensure that experiential learning opportunities, such as shadowing, are a standard feature in nursing programs. This recognition of the importance of such experiences is a promising sign of progress in nursing education.
As discussions around this research gain momentum, more institutions may begin to explore the possibility of formalizing shadowing experiences as part of their training protocols. With adequate support and resources, many nursing programs might incorporate structured shadowing as a staple element of their curricula, thereby enriching the educational journey of nursing students.
In conclusion, the study conducted by Hara, Tachibana, and Kumashiro brings to light the transformative power of operating room shadowing for novice nurses. Not only does it enhance technical skills and professional identity, but it also cultivates empathy and resilience, proving essential for future nursing practice. As the nursing landscape continues to evolve, establishing programs that facilitate such integrative learning experiences could pave the way for a more skilled and compassionate nursing workforce that is better equipped to serve patients in dire need.
The findings from this pioneering study not only highlight the lasting benefits of operating room shadowing but also reaffirm the importance of experiential learning in professional healthcare education. As the nursing field adapts to meet the challenges of the future, the insights gathered from this research will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the next generation of nursing professionals.
Subject of Research: The impact of undergraduate operating room shadowing on novice nurses.
Article Title: Lasting impact of undergraduate operating room shadowing on novice nurses: a ChatGPT-supported qualitative study.
Article References:
Hara, K., Tachibana, R., Kumashiro, R. et al. Lasting impact of undergraduate operating room shadowing on novice nurses: a ChatGPT-supported qualitative study.
BMC Nurs 24, 1151 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12912-025-03770-x
Image Credits: AI Generated
DOI: 10.1186/s12912-025-03770-x
Keywords: Nursing education, shadowing, qualitative study, ChatGPT, operating room, novice nurses, experiential learning, mentorship.
