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Nurse Externship
Gain real world RN experience before graduation, while putting into action the skills learned in nursing school. As a nurse extern, you’ll work under the guidance of an RN who will act as your mentor and preceptor. Your responsibilities will range from direct patient care to administering medications, placing IVs and conducting admission assessments. You’ll also view many different procedures, bringing your textbook education to life. This is your opportunity to meet and learn from experienced RNs and to find the specialty that’s your passion.
Scheduling is flexible with your class-schedule and we’re committed to helping you learn, develop and grow. You’ll forge your own path forward while providing total patient care and prepare yourself for your nursing career.
Informational Sessions for Nurse Externs
Please join us as we connect with nursing students to review the benefits of joining Advocate Health, which includes externships, a new grad residency program, shared governance, professional development opportunities, education assistance up to $7,200, and loan forgiveness of up to $20,000. The meeting will consist of a 15-minute presentation followed by a Q&A session with Advocate Health teammates. If you would like to be contacted by a recruiter or would like to receive future nursing student updates, please join our Nursing Student Talent Community.
December 12th, 2023 – 4:30 pm – 5:00 pm
January 23, 2024, 4:30 PM – 5:00 PM
February 20, 2024, 4:30 PM – 5:00 PM
March 19, 2024, 4:30 PM – 5:00 PM
April 23, 2024, 4:30 PM – 5:00 PM
May 21, 2024, 4:30 PM – 5:00 PM
June 18, 2024, 4:30 PM – 5:00 PM
July 23, 2024, 4:30 PM – 5:00 PM
August 20, 2024, 4:30PM – 5:00PM
September 24, 2024, 4:30PM – 5:00PM
October 22, 2024, 4:30PM – 5:00PM
November 19, 2024, 4:30PM – 5:00PM
December 17, 2024, 4:30PM – 5:00PM
Our team members
“When I transitioned from an extern into the grad nurse role, I felt empowered, understood patient flow, and was excited to work as a nurse on the unit.”
– Bailey J, RN House Supervisor
Meet Bailey
Bailey started her nursing career as a nursing assistant and then as an extern, learning from experienced nurses who helped her develop critical thinking skills and inspired her to keep moving forward, even on the most difficult days. The externship helped her see the endless opportunities available at Aurora. After graduating and becoming a registered nurse, she quickly became involved in shared governance, planned community projects and began working as a preceptor. Now, as a nurse leader, she works to help other nurses find their passions and love for nursing, while providing safe, patient-centered care.
We’re growing the next generation of nurses
3,800
nurses receive educational assistance
1,376
New Grad Nurse Residents
10,306
student nurses
Welcome
Participate in site onboarding, tour the hospital and your unit, meet members of the care team.
Expectations
Work with your leader to schedule shifts and review information about the externship.
Orientation
Complete orientation requirements, including EPIC system training.
Pathway Progression
Have regular check-ins with your preceptor and/or leader and partner to determine appropriate patient assignments.
Professional Development
Take part in professional development and shadowing opportunities with a variety of preceptors and leaders in multiple specialties.
Looking Ahead
As the externship wraps, begin the transition to Nurse Extern II or New Graduate Nurse.
IGNITE: Nurse Extern Program
Inspiring Growth in Nursing students through Individualized Training & Experience
Program Mission
To support the development of cognitive, clinical and professional competencies of the nursing student as they complete nursing school.
Program Overview
Progressing as a student nurse
Nurse Extern I
Nurse Extern I candidates are currently enrolled in an accredited nursing program and have completed their first medical surgical rotation. They perform activities of daily living, check vital signs, monitor blood glucose, complete head to toe assessments and reinforce patient teaching.
Nurse Extern II
Nurse Extern II candidates are currently enrolled in their final year of nursing school and have completed fundamental skills and pharmacology courses. In addition to the duties of a Nurse Extern I, they collaborate with their nurse preceptor to establish a plan of care, evaluate patient response to interventions and administer medications.
New Grad Nurse
After graduating and passing their NCLEX, the new grad nurse will complete the onboarding process focused on role development and experience. Components include nursing orientation, nurse residency, standardized competency model and preceptor program. As a new grad, you’ll also be eligible to participate in the Clinical Nurse Mentor program.
Nurse Residency Program
The one-year New Graduate Nurse Residency Program fosters a positive experience for all newly licensed nurses as they transition into practice and is here to help you grow professionally with guidance from supportive cohorts, training opportunities and monthly interactive learning sessions focused on patient outcomes, leadership and other professional roles. The sessions incorporate blended learning teaching strategies that include didactic, hands-on content, case studies, simulation and facilitated discussion.
