Under the supervision and/or direction of the Registered Nurse, the Nurse Extern I performs various direct patient care activities in accordance with the Nursing Department policies and procedures. The Nurse Extern I can assist with the care of hospitalized patients. The Nurse Extern I may be assigned other functions in accordance with hospital/department policies, procedures, and protocols.
Responsibilities:
Life-threatening situations are readily identified and reported to the R.N. Initiates and assists with basic life support when needed.
Observes/reports unusual symptoms to the nurse, i.e., abnormal V/S; IV site redness edema; suspicious areas of skin breakdown accurately and promptly.
Reports patient/family-related problems, i.e., patient?s dissatisfaction/refusal of nursing care routines; departure from activity advancements or restrictions.
Demonstrates a working knowledge of the aseptic/sterile technique. Follows universal precautions.
Records information accurately and promptly. Reports change in patient?s condition and/or vital signs.
Assists with laboratory specimens, i.e., collection or delivery.
Complies with timekeeping system. Accrues no unexcused absences, and no more than three unscheduled absences.
Uses supplies and equipment appropriately documents use in the medical record and records charges appropriately.
Participates in 80% of prescribed in-service programs and departmental meetings. When unable to attend (20% max) follow up to obtain information discussed
Follows hospital and/or unit policy for dress and personal hygiene.
Follows necessary safety precautions, hospital policies, and departmental policies.
Follows the CHRISTUS Health Guidelines related to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), designed to prevent or detect unauthorized disclosure of Protected Health Information (PHI).
Completes all required educational requirements.
Job Requirements:
Education/Skills
Currently enrolled in or a recent graduate of an accredited school of professional nursing, pursuing or having obtained an associate or bachelor?s degree in nursing (RN). If graduated from accredited school of professional nursing, Nurse Extern I must successfully complete NCLEX Exam within six (6) months of graduating.
Must have completed first clinical and be in good standing in the nursing program.
Proficient in basic nursing tasks.
Experience
Six (6) months experience in a hospital preferred, but not required.
Licenses, Registrations, or Certifications
AHA BLS required within two (2) weeks of employment.
CHRISTUS Health is an international faith-based, not-for-profit health care system based in Irving, Texas, with more than 60 hospitals in Texas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Chile, Colombia and Mexico. CHRISTUS Health is made up of 50,000 Associates providing compassionate and individualized care at more than 600 centers, including community hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities and health ministries. Sponsored by the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word of Houston, Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word of San Antonio and the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth, our mission is to extend the healing ministry of Jesus Christ to every individual we serve.