Patient Care Observers

Observations offer an opportunity for current or rising arts in health practitioners to shadow an AIM artist in residence as they deliver services in the clinical setting.
This page is intended to prepare patient care observers for their visit.

What to bring

Attire

  • Observers at UF Health must maintain a professional appearance. Unless your observation opportunity requires otherwise (as in the case of yoga or dance), business casual attire is expected.
  • Observers are asked to refrain from wearing sleeveless shirts, graphic tees, athletic wear, shorts, and exposed mid-drifts. Skirts or dresses worn should fall fingertip length or longer. Clothing should be clean, wrinkle free, and in good repair.
  • Closed toed shoes are required.
  • It is also important to not use any perfume as the scent can irritate the airways of certain patient populations, as well as staff.
  • It is often very hot outside, but the temperature inside can be very cold so we recommend layers. An umbrella is also a good idea, especially in the summer months as we tend to get afternoon rains.

Observing in the clinical setting

  • Please adhere to HIPAA guidelines and maintain patient confidentiality. If you are interested in taking notes on your experience you should do so when you are out of the patient room or off the unit and notes must not include any Protected Health Information. Ask your host artist if you have any questions about this.
  • Please ensure you are in good health for your visit. You will be asked to complete a patient care observation and health screening form upon your arrival.
  • You may be provided with a name tag identifying you as a guest of Arts in Medicine.
  • When engaging patients and guests, please note all conversations, activities and materials must be politically and religiously neutral. Please also refrain from offering any food, medication or medical advice.
  • Please refrain from taking photographs and audio or video recordings. If you are hoping to capture documentation of installations, AIM staff will assist.
  • This is an observational opportunity rather than a collaborative experience. Any requests to collaborate artistically during patient engagement should be communicated in advance and will be considered at the discretion of our host artist in residence.

Parking & Transportation

  • A parking or valet voucher will be provided for approved patient care observers. Connect with the AIM Administrative Assistant prior to your visit for parking instructions curated to you/your group.

Dining Options within UF Health

  • The Terrace Market Cafe is located on the 3rd floor of the Cancer Hospital (South Tower).
  • The Food Court and Cafeteria are located on the 1st floor of the Children’s Hospital (North Tower).
  • The Sun Terrace is an outside patio located north of the Food Court.
  • Blue Gill is located below the UF Health Cancer Hospital Parking Garage.

Questions? Email Erin Beardslee, Administrative Assistant, at HENERN@shands.ufl.edu or call Arts in Medicine at (352) 733-0880