Extern/Intern is it necessary before graduating?

llg, PhD, RN · Jul 11, 2010

I am on the other side of the fence -- the people doing the hiring. At my hospital, an externship/internship/CNA experience is not always necessary to get a job as a new grad -- but it is considered a big plus in the application process. Some of our specialized units pretty much require such experience, but our general med/surg units do not.

Big advantage, yes. Required for all jobs, no.

Hawaii011 · Jul 11, 2010

Hi llg-

I didn't think it was necessary to get a job, but I can see how it can be an advantage. Thank you for clearing this up for me. A lot of hospitals now having or in the process of getting magnet status, makes it hard for students in ADN programs to get extern/internships now a days.

bebe1138 · Aug 11, 2010

I worked as a Nurse Intern/Extern/Tech at three different hospitals in their ED's when I was a nursing student. I liked the fact that I could come in on any day or night and not worry about a set schedule. I also liked learning the operating procedures of the different hospitals. I made friends at each facility and when it came time to choose where I wanted to work as an RN I had plenty of folks willing to write letters of recommendation for me. When I finally picked were I wanted to work, there was no wondering if I picked the best place to work.

meandragonbrett · Aug 13, 2010

Necessary? No, absolutely not.....but you'll be far ahead of the game over what clinicals teaches you about being in the hospital environment.

chichi9 · Aug 15, 2010

Honestly, it is incredibly difficult to find these positions now, especially if you are not a registered CNA. Many are also unpaid now. I am a third semester nursing student with great gpa and a prior degree, and have been applying everywhere since my 1st semester (after which you are qualified for these positions). If you are interested in even trying for a position I would apply now.