Nurse Extern Program

The Nurse Extern Program is designed to provide expanded clinical experience for nursing students pursuing a professional nursing degree and to support the Registered Nursing staff through the delivery of direct patient care activities. Under the supervision and direction of a Registered Nurse, the Nurse Extern participates in patient care planning, implementation, observation, and evaluation while developing clinical knowledge and skills in a healthcare setting. The Nurse Extern reports significant patient observations and changes in condition to the supervising Registered Nurse and functions within the scope of the Nurse Extern role.

Nurse Extern I

The Nurse Extern I position is intended for students currently enrolled in an accredited AND, BSN or MSN program who have:

• Successfully completed their Nursing Fundamentals course


• Successfully completed their first clinical rotation


• Demonstrated basic nursing knowledge and clinical competency

Nurse Extern I team members provide fundamental patient care while gaining exposure to a variety of clinical situations under the direct supervision of a Registered Nurse.

Nurse Extern II

The Nurse Extern II position is intended for students currently enrolled in an accredited ADN, BSN or MSN nursing program who are within six (6) months of graduation.

Nurse Extern II team members are expected to demonstrate advanced clinical knowledge and increased independence in patient care activities appropriate to their educational preparation while continuing to work under the supervision of a Registered Nurse.

Essential Responsibilities

• Accurately checks patient blood glucose levels and documents results as ordered; immediately reports abnormal values to the assigned nurse.


• Obtains and documents vital signs appropriate to the patient's age, condition, and plan of care.


• Reports abnormal findings promptly to the attending nurse or charge nurse.


• Participates in patient care planning and implementation under the direction of the Registered Nurse.


• Observes, reports, and documents changes in patient condition.


• Assists with activities of daily living and other patient care needs as assigned.


• Coordinates care activities with members of the interdisciplinary healthcare team.


• Responds appropriately during emergency situations, including codes, patient falls, and rapid response events, according to organizational policy and level of training.


• Maintains patient safety, confidentiality, and quality standards.


• Performs related duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Basic knowledge of nursing principles and patient care practices.


• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.


• Ability to work effectively as part of a healthcare team.


• Ability to recognize and report changes in patient condition.


• Demonstrated commitment to patient-centered care and safety.


• Ability to maintain confidentiality and comply with hospital policies and regulatory requirements.


• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Minimum Qualifications

Required Education

• High school diploma or equivalent required.


• Current enrollment in an accredited Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program.

Licensure/Certification

• American Heart Association (AHA) Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification required.


• Certification must be obtained within seven (7) days of hire.