Registered Nurse (RN) Extern

Join our skilled nursing facility as an RN Extern and gain hands-on clinical experience while preparing for your nursing license. This temporary position is designed for graduates of state-approved nursing programs to work alongside experienced licensed nursing staff, build essential RN skills, and prepare for the transition to independent practice.

Clinical Setting

You will work in a skilled nursing facility providing care to residents across multiple units.

Responsibilities

• Shadow and assist licensed nursing staff with resident care activities
• Collaborate with the interdisciplinary team to develop and implement individualized plans of care
• Gain knowledge about the care needs of all assigned residents
• Conduct rounds to ensure care plans are being followed and residents receive optimal care
• Assist with writing and updating resident assessments and care plans, including learning about the Minimum Data Set (MDS) and Quality Indicators
• Review and act on all physician orders, both verbal and written
• Assist with appointment scheduling by notifying the Unit Clerk of physician orders
• Document thoroughly and accurately, including nurse charting, MDS entries, Medicare documentation, and lab and diagnostic results
• Complete assigned MDS assessments and prepare accurate shift reports for the oncoming nurse
• Scan central supply items for each resident to ensure proper inventory management
• Report any errors immediately to the Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) or Director of Nursing (DON) to maintain a safe and effective care environment
• Report any witnessed or suspected abuse immediately to the DON, ADON, or Administrator to maintain resident safety and dignity

Required Qualifications

• Graduate of a state-approved nursing school
• Must pass the NCLEX exam for licensure within 30 days of hire
• Must obtain a current Arizona State Board nursing license within 60 days of hire
• Knowledge of medical terminology and safety procedures
• Knowledge of infection control protocols and emergency procedures
• Knowledge of resident rights and how to identify and report abuse and neglect
• Ability to operate equipment and tools used in resident care
• Ability to follow safety protocols and maintain safety standards
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing
• Ability to utilize various computer applications for documentation and patient management
• Ability to recognize changes in a resident's condition and take swift, appropriate action
• Ability to seek help when facing challenges or situations outside your scope of practice
• Ability to respond to residents and their families with professionalism and sensitivity
• Ability to operate within your scope of practice according to Arizona State Board of Nursing Rules and the Nurse Practice Act
• Ability to use diagnostic equipment effectively
• Ability to build strong working relationships with colleagues, residents, and their families
• Ability to read, write, and understand instructions with clarity and precision
• Ability to maintain confidentiality in high-pressure or changing environments

Licenses and Certifications

• Current CPR certification (must be maintained)
• Arizona Department of Public Safety Fingerprint Card (obtained at employee's expense)
• Annual Tuberculosis Testing (required)
• Mandated federal, state, and local communicable disease testing (required)

Additional Requirements

• Participate in mandatory nursing meetings and continuing education classes
• Complete required 12 hours of annual in-service training