Started working as an Extern today

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Specializes in Med-Surg.

We're supposed to be on spring break, but because of tight money and all, I decided I needed to extern. I had orientation (to the system) earlier in the week, but this was my first day on the floor.

I'm working on a med/surg unit that does teams. It got a little slow up there today, so I suspect tomorrow will be wild! Anyway, about 15 minutes after I got there a patient on a different team passed, but she was DNR so I didn't get to see a full code in action--I really am wanting that experience. Then after a ton of the every day dull assessment/bathing/feeding I got to witness a grand mal seizure.

I am hoping that this experience will help me be more comfortable with the day to day things a nurse does.

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Congrats on the new job! Keep us posted on how it's gong!

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What all do you get to do in your job???

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I am also a nurse extern at our local hospital. I've worked in the ER and am now on the med/surg floor. I loved working in the ER but now I understand why seasoned nurses are saying to work on med/surg after graduation. There is everything under the sun going on there. It is a great learning experience and I can always find something new to ask a question about!!!

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Specializes in Med-Surg.
Originally posted by nurs2b

What all do you get to do in your job???

I'm sure it varies a lot from place to place. I basically get to do what the MAs do, with a few things added. I can do assessments and chart (an RN has to sign also). I can insert foleys and NG tubes and change non-sterile dressings.

No passing meds, no messing with IVs--at all.

It's more of a learning experience than anything else. I am not counted in staffing. I am assigned to a nurse. Yesterday I did a lot of following her around and asking questions.

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Specializes in LTC, ER, ICU,.

all the best to you! let us know how it goes.

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Specializes in Adult Med-Surg, Rehab, and Ambulatory Care.

That's great, good luck to you! :)

I've been tossing the idea around of doing an externship also once I finish this semester. There are about 4 or 5 places nearby that offer the chance. Nice to polish clinical skills and get paid while doing it! :)

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I'm finding it really good working as an Agency Health Care Assistant while studying. I get to choose when I work and most times there is a shift available for me.

What I appreciate most is that I'm seeing different areas and getting a feel for where I might like to work when I qualify.

Most of the nurses are great and put up with the rookie asking a ton of questions.

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