Externships

Several area hospitals offer nursing students the opportunity to participate in a nurse externship program. Nurse externs earn as they learn during a 4-6 week summer program for students who have completed their first year of nursing. This kind of experience provides students the opportunity to observe, demonstrate, and learn nursing procedures under the direct supervision of an employed registered nurse (RN) preceptor. The goal of the program is to increase the extern's knowledge and skills in patient assessment, clinical judgment, technical skills, organization, decision-making and problem solving.

The nurse externships provide a dynamic learning experience for nursing students. Working under the guidance of an assigned nurse mentor, the student has the opportunity to experience hospital nursing first hand. They are exposed to a variety of clinical settings. They participate in the care and management of patients and families providing hands-on learning at the bedside. It is a great way to strengthen skills and boost the student's self-confidence.

Transitioning from the classroom to a career can be challenging. You can get a head start on your nursing career by taking advantage of this unique opportunity to explore the rewarding world of nursing.