Overview

The Nurse Extern is accountable for providing nursing assistance and performing basic nursing procedures to groups of patients within an assigned nursing department, under the supervision, guidance and direction of a Registered Nurse. In addition, the Nurse Extern can gain additional clinical practice to enhance their preparation as future licensed nurses.

Responsibilities

Under the continuous direct on-site supervision of a Registered Nurse (for nursing care beyond that performed by nursing assistants once deemed competent for nursing assistant related tasks):

Interprets plan of medical care and provides input on nursing care plan and assist in the following provided they have been deemed clinically competent by their nursing instructor.

Completes the nursing assessment form with oversight and approval of RN.

Provides personal care including bath, shampoo, shave, back rub, positions changes, makes beds, prepares patients for meals, feeds patients and passes ice water.

Answers call lights and bells promptly to determine and meet patient needs.

Collects specimens, stool, urine, sputum, etc.

Collects input and output and records appropriately.

Collects and records vital signs on patient. Obtains and records pertinent patient information per hospital policy.

Assist and/or feeds patients. (enteral feedings included), provides between meal nourishments, provides fresh drinking water and encourages fluids when indicated.

Assists in progressive ambulation of patients by wheelchair, stretcher and bed.

Administers enemas, douches and inserts rectal tubes and documents appropriately.

Applies ace bandages and elastic stockings and sequential compression devices.

Inserts catheters and feeding tubes.

Applies restraints and side rails to ensure safety of patients.

Observes isolation technique and give direct care to patients in isolation.

Assists in ostomy care and education.

Set up orthopedic appliances.

Performs nursing functions requiring skill and judgement (supervised by RN).

Maintains records and reports necessary information in regard to patient care.

Confers periodically with the RN on activities of the nursing staff and matters related to nursing care.

Assists in patient and family education as directed by the RN.

Serves as a liaison between the patient and other members of the health team.

Prepares patients for surgery and other therapeutic and diagnostic procedures.

Maintains a safe environment for patient care.

Place IV infusion devices under the direct supervision/immediate presence at the bedside of the supervising nurse.

Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

High school diploma or GED equivalent.

Enrollment in Board of Nursing approved School of Nursing Registered Nurse Program

Completion of Nursing Fundamentals and/or basic Med/Surg clinical rotation.

(Will vary per school)

• Program Duration: 6-12 Months
• Program Candidates: Enrolled in an Accredited Registered Nurse Program
• Minimum Requirements:

Education: Successful completion of one Med/Surg clinical rotation in an acute care setting

Current Transcripts and Copy of Skills Evaluation on basic procedures, such as: Taking vital signs, giving bed baths, feeding, positioning and turning patients, etc.

Recommendation letter from 2 instructors

Pass Background Check (Note: Candidate will be scheduled for interview when requirements #1 to #5 are complete)

After acceptance into the program, candidates have to pass post off screenings/physical screening and other organization requirements for new hires.