Job Summary
The nurse extern works closely with our professional healthcare team to deliver compassionate patient-centered care to those in need. Under the direct supervision of a registered nurse preceptor, the nurse extern has the opportunity to develop confidence in critical thinking and prioritization while sharpening clinical skills needed to launch a successful nursing career in a manageable timeframe. The Nurse Extern will be able to develop clinical judgement and problem solving techniques based on current established Standards of Care, the Nurse Practice Act, and Methodist Hospitals mission, vision, and values.
ResponsibilitiesPrincipal Duties and Responsibilities (*Essential Functions)
Perform basic patient care related tasks such as measuring and recording vital signs including height and weight, accurate measurement of all Intake and output, mobility, nutrition, hygiene, comfort and environment interventions, infection prevention measures, and patient safety interventions.
Assist in performing various therapeutic procedures.
Makes contributions to patient’s interdisciplinary plan of care under the direct supervision of a registered nurse preceptor.
Provide pertinent education to patient and family members regarding patient care.
Accurately document all patient care activities in the Electronic Medical Record per Methodist policy.
Job Specific (Minimum Qualifications)
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Possess good interpersonal communication skills.
- Able to communicate effectively in writing and verbally.
- Able to work independently and in a team environment.
- Demonstrates diplomacy interacting with patients, family members, visitors, and staff.
- Demonstrates flexibility in meeting unanticipated demands and priorities.
- Able to maintain a calm demeanor in a crisis situation.
- Able to use the nursing process for approaching problems faced in role as a nurse extern.
Education
Currently enrolled student in good academic standing or a Nurse Graduate who has successfully completed an accredited School of Nursing and preparing for National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).
If currently enrolled in accredited School of Nursing, must also have successfully completed Fundamentals/Foundations of Nursing (or its equivalent) didactic and lab.
Current school registration or proof of graduation required.
Experience
Certifications and Licensures
Current Basic Life Support credentials (BLS) is Required
Nurse Graduates must secure Indiana licensing within 60 days from their graduation date.
Model of Care and Conduct
Methodist Hospitals strives for excellence and insists on high standards of conduct and performance in everything we do. Our Model of Care and Conduct is designed to create a positive work environment which Methodist desires for all employees. This is foundational to the high level of patient, family and physician satisfaction we strive for each day. As part of all position’s duties at Methodist Hospitals, all employees are responsible to conduct themselves in accordance with the Model of Care and Conduct and will be evaluated according to these standards of behavior.
Skills Required
- Currently enrolled in good academic standing in an accredited nursing program, or a nurse graduate who has completed an accredited nursing program and is preparing for the NCLEX.
- Nursing students must have successfully completed Fundamentals or Foundations of Nursing, including didactic and laboratory components.
- Current school registration or proof of graduation.
- Current Basic Life Support credentials.
- Nurse graduates must secure Indiana nursing licensure within 60 days of graduation.
- Good interpersonal communication skills and effective written and verbal communication.
- Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
- Ability to use the nursing process and remain calm in crisis situations.
What We Do
Methodist Hospitals is a nonprofit healthcare organization serving Northwest Indiana. Its mission is to provide compassionate, quality health care to all those in need. The organization operates three campuses with 562 inpatient beds and employs 2,412 people, including 590 physicians and allied health professionals. It provides hospital and medical services while emphasizing patient care, physician practice, employee experience, and community health.
