Nationwide Children's Livingston Surgery Center
I began shadowing at the Nationwide Children’s Livingston Surgery Center the week of September 14th 2025. The hospital originally started in 1892, formed by a group of “lady managers” that were determined to provide free care to children from poor families. What started as a small, 9 bed hospital has evolved into one of the largest pediatric hospitals in the nation, with its steady expansions and research involvement. The Livingston Center is just one example of the expansions added to the hospital, and it is mainly focused on eye care, ear, nose, and throat procedures, orthopedics, pain management, and gastrointestinal procedures. The center was opened in July of 2024, with Ms. Amy White as the nurse director. I began my experience there by shadowing nurses in both pre and post operation areas, and I eventually moved to shadow surgeons in the operating room.
During my time at the Livingston Surgery Center, my main mentor was Amy White. Growing up she envisioned herself being a vet, and then a teacher, however she switched the route she wanted to take last minute while at her college orientation. She came to be the nursing director at the Livingston Surgery Center by growing through the Nationwide Children's organization. She went from being an operating room nurse, to an operating room manager, and then to the nurse director. Some of her biggest role models were her parents and boss, and she stated that they pushed her to be where she is now.
When asked about the qualities required to be successful in her position, she claimed that a person must be organized, be a good multitasker, be a people person, and be respectful. One of the main advantages to her job is that it is very fulfilling and rewarding, as she is helping people every day. After observing her daily activities, it was clear that Amy is a very hard working individual with approximately 80 staff members under her supervision. Despite the large amount of work placed upon her, she handled all of her assigned tasks with ease and professionalism.
Amy White, MSN, RN, CNOR
Learning Goals During My Shadowing
1
Learn the basics of patient prep and sterile technique
In order to prioritize patient safety and make sure that I am following all guidelines necessary, I chose to incorporate learning about proper patient preparations and sterile technique. I went through with this by asking questions to nurses in the operating room as well as observing surgeries first hand.
2
Be able to explain the process of an Artisan Eye Lens Readjustment
To follow through with this goal, I carefully observed and asked many questions while viewing this specific procedure. Aside from what I learned on-site, I conducted a bit of research of my own in order to gain a more in-depth understanding of the procedure.
3
Network and create new connections at my mentor site
I know the importance of making connections, especially when trying to get into a certain career field. With that being said, I dedicated one of my learning goals to getting to know the people I am shadowing and to jump at any networking opportunities.
4
Ask questions to everyone I observe and gather tools to help me better understand what's going on at my mentor site
While working towards this goal, I learned how to become more outspoken in nerve-racking environments, as well as the importance of asking questions in a professional manner. After speaking with my mentor, I was able to acquire the "Essentials of Perioperative Nursing" by Cynthia Spry to help get a better background understanding of what was going on.
5
Develop an understanding of the most commonly performed surgeries at my mentor site
In order to complete this goal, I sat in on many similar surgeries and asked the doctor or OR nurse a variety of questions. I asked questions relating to the cause behind needing the surgery, the age range that most patients fall in, and potential effects post-surgery.