Responsible for developing clinical skills and problem solving techniques based on current established Standards of Care, the Nurse Practice Act and Methodist Hospital policies and procedures. This is accomplished under direct supervision of the designated preceptor as evidenced by preceptor co-signature of all actions. The Nurse Extern IV demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of the patient population served on a designated nursing unit.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES(*Essential Functions)

1. Assists in the performance of therapeutic procedures.
2. Observes and performs nursing care under the supervision of the nurse preceptor.
3. Implements the patient's plan of care with all health care disciplines.
4. Assesses, evaluates, interprets and documents the patient's physical and mental status under the supervision of a Registered Nurse.
5. Provides pertinent healthcare education to patients and patient's family.

JOB SPECIFICATIONS(Minimum Requirements)

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 

• 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

STANDARDS OF BEHAVIOR
Meets the Standards of Behavior as outlined in Personnel Policy and Procedure #1, Employee Relations Code.

CONFIDENTIALITY/HIPAA/CORPORATE COMPLIANCE
Demonstrates knowledge of procedures for protecting and maintaining security, confidentiality and integrity of employee, patient, family, organizational and other medical information. Understands and supports the commitment of Methodist Hospitals in adhering to federal, state and local laws, rules and regulations governing ethical business practices for healthcare providers.

DISCLAIMER - The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. The statements are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required.