About the position
The Student Nurse Extern in the Trauma Acute (Stepdown) unit is responsible for assisting nursing staff in the care of patients, performing tasks as determined by skills training and validation in accordance with established policies and procedures. This role involves maintaining equipment and supplies while performing all activities under the direct supervision of a Registered Nurse. The extern will participate in and perform selected activities and nursing care as assigned, ensuring adherence to established protocols. Key responsibilities include performing non-invasive procedures, assisting in the development and revision of Nursing Care Plans, and executing clerical duties related to patient admissions, discharges, and record maintenance. The extern will also be involved in taking and recording vital signs, collecting and transporting specimens, and providing basic patient care such as hygiene and nutrition. Additionally, the extern will document patient outcomes and communicate effectively with the nursing staff regarding patient care needs and unit activities. The position requires the extern to prepare patients and their environment for care, assist with wound care, and support patient mobility. The extern will also be responsible for monitoring supplies and equipment, maintaining patient confidentiality, and adhering to HIPAA and compliance policies. This role is crucial in ensuring the safety and comfort of patients while providing essential support to the nursing team.
Responsibilities
- Assists nursing staff in the care of patients under the supervision of a Registered Nurse.
- Participates in and performs selected activities and nursing care as assigned according to established policies and procedures.
- Performs non-invasive procedures and assists in developing and revisiting Nursing Care Plans.
- Carries out clerical duties related to admissions, discharges, and maintenance of patient records.
- Takes and records patient vital signs including temperature, pulse, blood pressure, and respiration.
- Collects, prepares, forwards, and transports specimens such as urine, stool, and sputum.
- Provides basic patient care including hygiene, nutrition, and comfort measures.
- Observes and reports patients' responses to interventions and treatments.
- Documents patient outcomes and completed work in a timely manner.
- Prepares patients, environment, and supplies for care/treatment and works within isolation precautions.
- Assists with wound care, applying dressings, and transferring patients.
- Reports unusual changes in patients' conditions and responds to emergencies.
- Maintains confidentiality and adheres to HIPAA and compliance policies.
Requirements
- Must be enrolled in an approved nursing program (diploma, associate, or bachelor degree in nursing) and have completed fundamentals of nursing.
- Must provide proof of continuous enrollment in an approved nursing program to maintain employment.
- Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certification required upon hire.
- BCLS - Basic Life Support certification required upon hire.
- Experience in patient care or equivalent on-the-job training as obtained through participation in an approved nursing program.
