New Job as Nurse Extern

[wbrown06]

I have new hire orientation coming up on Monday and am very excited!! I feel this will be an excellent opportunity while I am still in nursing school ( only 3 semesters to go ). It is float pool per diem position. Any tips or advice before I start!?

[student_stephanie]

Congratulations on the job! I also just recently got hired as a PCT, graduating next May. I would suggest to try and seek out as many opportunities for learning as possible. If you have a down time, ask other PCTs or nurses if they need help with anything. Also, keep your phone in your locker so you aren't tempted to use it while you're working. Ask lots of questions, and always keep a positive attitude. If your PCT position is like mine, they hired with the intent on hiring you as an RN when you graduate. Good luck! :)

[green34]

Find out what color scrubs you need now so you can find them cheaper. Bring in stuff you need just in case you are a sitter and the patient wants nothing to do with you. A lot of the float pool nurse externs are used as sitters in the larger hospital.

[DawnCaprice]

Congrats! I am also a Nurse Extern. I work as a PCT and a Unit Secretary. I have learned a lot in the past 6 months. I plan on working at this hospital after I pass the NCLEX in June.

My only suggestion is to learn to go with the flow. I am learning this as I type. lol! Also, be a sponge and soak it all in. Ask questions, I have found that most nurses who know that you are going to nursing school are awesome at showing you things or taking the extra minute to explain things to you.