Nurse Extern - Surgical Intensive Care Unit

Penn State Hershey Medical Center is seeking Nurse Externs for a 10-week summer program (May 17 – July 24, 2027) in the Surgical Intensive Care Unit. This externship is designed for nursing students entering their final year of an accredited nursing program.

The 30-bed surgical intensive care unit serves patients admitted for emergency general surgery, Level 1 trauma, transplant, and surgical services. The unit specializes in orthopedics, urology, surgical oncology, plastic surgery, colorectal surgery, thoracic surgery, and obstetrics/gynecology.

Program Overview

The externship begins with a two-week orientation that includes both classroom and clinical components. Throughout the 10-week program, you will be assigned to a Registered Nurse mentor who will guide your learning and clinical practice.

Responsibilities

• Perform basic bedside care under RN supervision
• Perform selected nursing procedures as directed
• Learn and demonstrate physical assessment skills
• Learn and demonstrate routine basic care skills including bathing, safety, and hygiene activities
• Partner with an RN to develop clinical competencies

Required Qualifications

• Enrolled as a nursing student in the final year of an accredited nursing program
• Completion of at least one clinical rotation
• OR current Graduate Nurse status without Board certification

Schedule

• Work Type: PRN (as needed)
• Shift: Varied hours
• Program Dates: May 17 – July 24, 2027

Benefits

Penn State Health offers benefits including medical, dental, and vision coverage with no waiting period, paid time off, paid parental leave, retirement plans, tuition reimbursement, employee wellness programs, fitness discounts, and an employee recognition program.

Additional Information

Please include your completed clinical rotations on your resume. Penn State Hershey Medical Center is Central Pennsylvania's only Academic Medical Center, Level 1 Regional Adult and Pediatric Trauma Center, and holds four-time Magnet accreditation. All candidates selected for a position will undergo a background check appropriate for the position's responsibilities.

For more information, visit https://www.pennstatehealth.org/careers/nurseextern or contact Renee Webster at rfoster4@pennstatehealth.psu.edu.