The Nurse Extern Tier I is accountable for providing nursing assistance and performing basic nursing procedures to groups of patients within an assigned nursing department, under the supervision, guidance and direction of a Registered Nurse. In addition, the Nurse Extern can gain additional clinical practice to enhance their preparation as future licensed nurses.

Under the continuous direct on-site supervision of a Registered Nurse (for nursing care beyond that performed by nursing assistants once deemed competent for nursing assistant related tasks):

• Interprets plan of medical care and provides input on nursing care plan and assist in the following provided they have been deemed clinically competent by their nursing instructor.
• Completes the nursing assessment form with oversight and approval of RN.
• Provides personal care including bath, shampoo, shave, back rub, positions changes, makes beds, prepares patients for meals, feeds patients and passes ice water.
• Answers call lights and bells promptly to determine and meet patient needs.
• Collects specimens, stool, urine, sputum, etc.
• Collects input and output and records appropriately.
• Collects and records vital signs on patient. Obtains and records pertinent patient information per hospital policy.
• Assist and/or feeds patients. (enteral feedings included), provides between meal nourishments, provides fresh drinking water and encourages fluids when indicated.
• Assists in progressive ambulation of patients by wheelchair, stretcher and bed.
• Administers enemas, douches and inserts rectal tubes and documents appropriately.
• Applies ace bandages and elastic stockings and sequential compression devices.
• Inserts catheters and feeding tubes.
• Applies restraints and side rails to ensure safety of patients.
• Observes isolation technique and give direct care to patients in isolation.
• Assists in ostomy care and education.
• Set up orthopedic appliances.
• Performs nursing functions requiring skill and judgement (supervised by RN).
• Maintains records and reports necessary information in regard to patient care.
• Confers periodically with the RN on activities of the nursing staff and matters related to nursing care.
• Assists in patient and family education as directed by the RN.
• Serves as a liaison between the patient and other members of the health team.
• Prepares patients for surgery and other therapeutic and diagnostic procedures.
• Maintains a safe environment for patient care.
• Place IV infusion devices under the direct supervision/immediate presence at the bedside of the supervising nurse.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Education
• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Enrollment in Board of Nursing approved School of Nursing Registered Nurse Program
• Completion of basic Nursing Fundamentals and/or Certified Nursing Assistant Course
• Current Transcripts and Copy of Skills Evaluation on basic procedures
• Recommendation Letter from 2 Instructors

Minimum Work Experience
• N/A

Required Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities
• Ability to function in and adapt appropriately to a fast-moving, cross-unit team environment.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Prior experience handling confidential matters with appropriate discretion.
• To handle multiple, simultaneous tasks in a timely manner.
• Collaborative attitude with the many different departments.
• Must maintain positive, professional communications skills when working with co-workers
• Detail oriented