Nurse Extern - Summer 2027 - Philhaven Behavioral Health

Join WellSpan Philhaven as a Nurse Extern for Summer 2027, a paid clinical experience designed for nursing students entering their final year of study. This temporary 36-hour-per-week externship runs from May 17 through July 10, 2027, and provides hands-on experience in behavioral health nursing across multiple inpatient settings.

You will work under the guidance of an experienced RN preceptor in a 1:1 mentorship model, rotating through two 4-week unit experiences in adult inpatient, child/adolescent inpatient, and extended acute inpatient care. WellSpan Philhaven is a comprehensive behavioral health organization serving patients with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, phobias, PTSD, and other mental health conditions.

Clinical Setting

WellSpan Philhaven's main campus is located on more than 200 acres in Mt. Gretna, Pennsylvania, featuring a tranquil environment with walking trails and an adjacent operating farm. The organization operates more than 20 programs and services across its continuum of care.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct patient care including bathing, dressing, eating assistance, bed linen changes, and positioning
• Assist with data collection and documentation of care provided
• Monitor patient condition levels and report changes to appropriate staff
• Obtain and document patient vital signs including temperature, blood pressure, weight, respiration, pulse, and pain assessment
• Perform EKGs and point-of-care testing such as blood glucose, hemoccult, and specific gravity testing
• Prepare and transport patients for tests and procedures
• Perform selected procedures per the Nurse Extern checklist
• Set up and remove equipment and supplies; ensure proper functioning and storage
• Respond to patient calls and run special errands as required
• Maintain appropriate stock levels of supplies and equipment on assigned units
• Notify supervisor when reorder points are reached
• Demonstrate knowledge of growth and development principles appropriate to assigned patient populations
• Provide age-specific assessment and treatment
• Maintain established policies, procedures, quality standards, safety protocols, and infection control standards
• Participate in educational programs and inservice meetings
• Provide outstanding customer service and foster teamwork

Schedule

• Temporary position: 36 hours per week
• Program dates: May 17, 2027 - July 10, 2027
• Rotating shifts based on preceptor schedule
• Two 4-week unit experiences

Required Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in an accredited nursing program with completion of at least two clinical semesters
• Completion of at least one medical-surgical clinical rotation prior to start of externship
• Must be in good standing status in accredited nursing program
• High School Diploma or GED
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required upon hire

Preferred Qualifications

• Enrollment in an accredited BSN program
• Entering final semester or year of nursing program (graduation winter 2027 - summer 2028)

Application Requirements

Your application must include:

• Resume
• Official transcript
• Letter of recommendation from current nursing instructor highlighting current academic standing, current behavior standing, and completion of Medical Surgical rotation