Nurse Extern - Semester 2027

Inova is seeking Nurse Externs for the 2027 Semester Program, offering valuable clinical experience across multiple Northern Virginia facilities. This 12-week program provides nursing students the opportunity to work alongside Registered Nurses in inpatient acute care settings while developing clinical skills and confidence.

Program Overview

The Nurse Extern program requires a minimum of 96 hours on the unit over the 12-week session. The first week consists of five days of mandatory training and orientation during daytime hours. Start dates are January 4, 2027 and March 8, 2027. Applications must be submitted by November 1, 2026 for priority consideration.

Clinical Setting

Positions are available across inpatient units at five Inova facilities: Alexandria Hospital, Fairfax Medical Campus, Fair Oaks Hospital, Loudoun Hospital, and Mount Vernon Hospital. All shifts are available (day, mid, and night).

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the Registered Nurse on the plan of care for assigned patients
• Provide basic nursing care under the direction and supervision of the RN
• Assist with treatments and procedures under RN supervision
• Support unit needs to improve patient flow and outcomes through effective communication and collaboration
• Assist the RN and healthcare team in gathering basic monitoring data and specimen collection
• Observe and report patient symptoms and changes in patient condition to the appropriate RN
• Evaluate and maintain the environment to promote patient and healthcare team safety
• Document all patient care activities in accordance with documentation standards
• Maintain patient privacy and confidentiality
• Attend simulation exercises as assigned
• Complete extern training, skill competency checklist, and simulation labs
• Perform other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in a nursing degree program
• Minimum Grade Point Average of 3.0 (official transcript required)
• Successful completion of at least one acute care (medical-surgical) clinical rotation
• One faculty letter of recommendation
• Basic Life Support (BLS) for Healthcare Provider certification from the American Heart Association required upon start date