Nurse Extern - Summer 2027 - Gettysburg Hospital

Join WellSpan Gettysburg Hospital as a Nurse Extern this summer and gain hands-on clinical experience across multiple specialty areas. This paid externship runs from May 17, 2027 through July 10, 2027 and is designed for nursing students entering their final semester or year of study. You will complete two 4-week unit rotations while working a minimum of 36 hours per week on rotating shifts. Throughout the program, you will work one-on-one with an experienced RN preceptor who will guide your development and help you build clinical competency.

Clinical Setting

WellSpan Gettysburg Hospital is a nationally recognized acute care community hospital serving over 100,000 residents in the greater Adams County and northern Maryland area. The hospital offers comprehensive services including neurosciences, orthopedics, oncology, OB/GYN, and advanced cardiac and interventional care.

Rotation Areas

During your externship, you may rotate through any of the following units based on program needs:

• Surgical Unit
• Medical Unit
• Emergency Department
• Maternity
• Critical Care Units
• Operating Room
• Nursing Resource Team

Responsibilities

• Provide direct patient care including bathing, dressing, eating assistance, bed linen changes, and positioning
• Obtain and document patient vital signs including temperature, blood pressure, weight, respiration, pulse, and pain levels
• Assist with patient preparation and transportation for tests and procedures
• Monitor patient condition and report changes to appropriate staff members
• Perform selected clinical procedures upon demonstrated competency, which may include catheterization, nasogastric tube insertion and care, wound care, tube feeding administration, enema administration, and ostomy care
• Perform EKGs and point-of-care testing such as blood glucose, hemoccult, and specific gravity testing
• Set up and remove equipment and supplies; ensure equipment functions properly and is stored appropriately
• Maintain par levels of supplies and equipment on assigned units and notify supervisors when reorder points are reached
• Assist with data collection and documentation of care provided
• Respond to patient calls and run errands as required
• Maintain established policies, procedures, quality standards, safety protocols, and infection control standards
• Participate in educational programs and inservice meetings

Required Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in an accredited nursing program with completion of at least two clinical semesters
• Completion of Medical Surgical rotation in an accredited nursing program prior to externship start date
• Maintain good standing status in your accredited nursing program
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required upon hire
• High School Diploma or GED

Preferred Qualifications

• Enrollment in an accredited BSN program
• Consideration given for RN students entering their final semester or year (graduation winter 2027 - summer 2028)

Licenses and Certifications

• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required upon hire
• Completion of a formal Nurse Extern Program required upon hire

Schedule

• Program dates: May 17, 2027 - July 10, 2027
• Minimum work commitment: 36 hours per week
• Rotating shifts based on preceptor schedule
• Two 4-week unit experiences during the program period