## Stepdown Nurse Extern - Thomas Memorial Hospital, South Charleston, WV Are you a nursing student eager to gain hands-on experience in a dynamic healthcare environment? WVU Medicine Thomas Memorial Hospital is seeking a Stepdown Nurse Extern to join our team! This temporary position offers a unique opportunity to practice your skills in various nursing areas under the guidance of experienced RNs. If you're passionate about patient care and ready to take the next step in your nursing career, we encourage you to apply! ### Role Overview As a Stepdown Nurse Extern, you will work closely with registered nurses to provide direct and indirect patient care. This role allows you to apply your nursing knowledge in a real-world setting, enhancing your clinical skills and preparing you for future nursing roles. You'll assist with activities of daily living, perform designated procedures, and contribute to maintaining a safe and sanitary patient environment. This position is designed to provide a supportive learning experience, with opportunities for mentorship and skill development. ### A Day in the Life of a Stepdown Nurse Extern Each day as a Stepdown Nurse Extern will bring new challenges and learning opportunities. Here's a glimpse into what you can expect: * **Morning:** Start your day by attending a team huddle to discuss patient care plans and priorities. Assist patients with their morning routines, including bathing, dressing, and oral hygiene. Monitor vital signs and report any abnormalities to the RN. * **Mid-Day:** Assist the RN with administering medications and performing treatments. Help patients with meals and ensure they are comfortable. Document patient care activities accurately and promptly in the electronic health record. * **Afternoon:** Assist with patient ambulation and transfers. Collect specimens for laboratory testing. Provide emotional support and reassurance to patients and their families. Participate in patient care conferences to contribute to care planning. * **Evening:** Prepare patients for the night, ensuring they are comfortable and have everything they need. Assist with evening medications and treatments. Maintain a clean and organized patient environment. Report any changes in patient condition to the RN. ### Why South Charleston, West Virginia? South Charleston offers a blend of small-town charm and urban amenities. Nestled in the Kanawha Valley, you'll find beautiful scenery and outdoor recreational opportunities. The city boasts a friendly community, affordable cost of living, and easy access to larger cities like Charleston. South Charleston is an excellent place to start your nursing career and enjoy a balanced lifestyle. WVU Medicine Thomas Memorial Hospital is deeply rooted in the South Charleston community, providing comprehensive care to the region. Working here means you’re not just an employee; you’re part of a family dedicated to improving the health and well-being of your neighbors. ### Career Path This Stepdown Nurse Extern position is a stepping stone to a fulfilling nursing career within WVU Medicine. Upon graduation and licensure, you may be eligible for various nursing positions, including: * **Registered Nurse (RN):** Provide direct patient care, administer medications, and develop care plans. * **Charge Nurse:** Oversee nursing staff and ensure smooth unit operations. * **Clinical Nurse Specialist:** Provide expert consultation and education in a specialized area of nursing. * **Nurse Manager:** Lead and manage a nursing unit, overseeing staff and ensuring quality patient care. WVU Medicine is committed to supporting your professional growth and offers numerous opportunities for advancement through continuing education, mentorship programs, and leadership development initiatives. ### Salary & Benefits While the exact salary for this externship can vary, WVU Medicine offers competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package. The estimated salary range for a Nurse Extern in South Charleston, WV is $30,000 to $40,000 annually. Benefits include: * Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision) * Paid time off (PTO) including vacation, sick leave, and holidays * Retirement plan options with employer matching * Life insurance and disability coverage * Tuition reimbursement and educational assistance programs * Employee assistance program (EAP) for confidential counseling and support * Wellness programs and resources to promote employee health * Employee discounts on various products and services * Flexible spending accounts (FSA) for healthcare and dependent care expenses * Professional development opportunities and continuing education * Career advancement opportunities within WVU Medicine * Supportive and collaborative work environment ### WVU Medicine Culture WVU Medicine is committed to creating a supportive and inclusive work environment where every employee feels valued and respected. We foster a culture of teamwork, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Our employees are passionate about providing exceptional patient care and making a positive impact on the communities we serve. We emphasize ongoing training and development, ensuring our staff have the skills and knowledge to excel in their roles. We recognize that a healthy work-life balance is essential for our employees' well-being. We offer flexible scheduling options and encourage employees to take advantage of our wellness programs and resources. ### How to Apply If you are ready to join the WVU Medicine team as a Stepdown Nurse Extern, we encourage you to apply! Click the “Apply” button located at the top of this page and complete the application in full. Be sure to include your resume, cover letter, and transcripts. We look forward to reviewing your application! ### Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 1. **What are the minimum qualifications for this position?** You must be entering your final semester/year of a Diploma, Associate, or Baccalaureate RN program from an accredited School of Nursing and obtain Basic Life Support (BLS) certification within 30 days of hire. 2. **What are the core duties and responsibilities of a Nurse Extern?** You will assist the registered nurse in providing direct and indirect patient care, performing designated procedures, accurately observing and reporting patient information, and maintaining a clean and safe environment. 3. **What skills will I develop as a Nurse Extern?** You will develop skills in patient care, vital signs monitoring, medication administration (limited access), electronic health records (EHR), infection control, and communication. 4. **Will I receive training and support in this role?** Yes, you will receive comprehensive training and support from a nurse mentor, clinical preceptor, nurse manager, and/or nurse director. 5. **What opportunities are there for career advancement within WVU Medicine?** WVU Medicine offers numerous opportunities for advancement through continuing education, mentorship programs, and leadership development initiatives. 6. **What is the work environment like at WVU Medicine?** WVU Medicine is committed to creating a supportive and inclusive work environment where every employee feels valued and respected. 7. **What benefits are offered to employees at WVU Medicine?** WVU Medicine offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, paid time off, retirement plans, and tuition reimbursement. 8. **What is the salary range for a Nurse Extern?** The estimated salary range for a Nurse Extern in South Charleston, WV is $30,000 to $40,000 annually. 9. **Is this position a good fit for someone looking to gain experience in a hospital setting?** Yes, this position is specifically designed to provide nursing students with hands-on experience in a hospital setting. 10. **How does this externship prepare me for a full-time nursing role?** This externship allows you to apply your nursing knowledge in a real-world setting, enhancing your clinical skills and preparing you for future nursing roles under the supervision and guidance of experienced RNs. We hope this information has been helpful! If you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to contact us. We look forward to receiving your application!