The Nurse Extern works in the Intermediate Care Unit (IMCU) under the direct supervision of a registered nurse preceptor. This role provides an opportunity to develop clinical judgment, critical thinking, and prioritization skills while gaining hands-on experience in patient care within a structured learning environment.
Responsibilities
- Perform basic patient care tasks including measuring and recording vital signs, height, and weight
- Accurately measure and record all intake and output
- Assist with patient mobility, nutrition, hygiene, comfort, and environmental interventions
- Implement infection prevention and patient safety measures
- Assist in performing various therapeutic procedures
- Contribute to the patient's interdisciplinary plan of care under direct supervision of a registered nurse preceptor
- Provide education to patients and family members regarding patient care
- Accurately document all patient care activities in the Electronic Medical Record per Methodist policy
- Perform other duties as assigned
Required Qualifications
- Currently enrolled in good academic standing in an accredited School of Nursing, or a Nurse Graduate who has successfully completed an accredited School of Nursing and is preparing for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX)
- If currently enrolled, must have successfully completed Fundamentals/Foundations of Nursing (or equivalent) didactic and lab coursework
- Current school registration or proof of graduation required
- Current Basic Life Support (BLS) credentials required
- Nurse Graduates must secure Indiana licensing within 60 days from graduation date
Required Skills and Abilities
- Good interpersonal communication skills
- Effective written and verbal communication
- Ability to work independently and in a team environment
- Diplomacy when interacting with patients, family members, visitors, and staff
- Flexibility in meeting unanticipated demands and priorities
- Ability to maintain calm demeanor in crisis situations
- Ability to use the nursing process for problem-solving
