[2B_RN_2008]

Are there ED nursing internships in most hospitals? What is the best way to find an ED internship for a student nurse?

[JoniL&DRN]

My hospital has them but I understand they are hard to come by. The usually hire the students who have worked there as techs but I bet if you are determined enough to get a meeting with the NM you could plead your case. I have found that to be the situation is most dept. I am the only Intern on a L&D floor ;o)

[widi96]

If you have any place around that hires techs in the ER that you would qualify for - I would HIGHLY recommend it. I would also recommend being cross trained as a secretary.

As a tech you learn the hands on stuff and how to work the equipment and see the nurses in action.

Being a secretary helps you learn medications and dosages and what type of tests are used for specific complaints.

[nmjernigan]

You could also try seeing if the hospital will hire you as a Professional Student Nurse. It is an actual position that some facilities have that allow you to work as in more of a nursing position (more responsibilities) rather than a Tech Position. But, if facilities around you do not have that position then I agree...go for a tech position.

[WDWpixieRN]

A local employer in our area offered summer student nurse internships and the ED was offered as one of the units of assignment. We found out about them as they were on campus for a recruiting fair of sorts. I watched their websites closely for the summer program information to be posted and them jumped on it!! Myself and another gal from our ADN program were both hired for the ED. It has been an absolutely awesome experience and I highly recommend it if you are interested. This same company also offers winter break programs.

We are both transitioning to tech positions once the internship is over, with the thought in mind that we will have our proverbial feet in the door come graduation time next year!!

Check local hospital websites under "Nursing" as there's often something listed for "Students" and/or call hospital recruiters directly. From what I've seen, they are ALWAYS interested in talking to students.

Best wishes!!