Nurse Extern Tier II
Company : Appalachian Regional Healthcare
Location : Hazard, KY, 41701
Job Type : Full Time / Part Time
Date Posted : 3 January 2026
Overview
The Nurse Extern is accountable for providing nursing assistance and performing basic nursing procedures to groups of patients within an assigned nursing department, under the supervision, guidance and direction of a Registered Nurse. In addition, the Nurse Extern can gain additional clinical practice to enhance their preparation as future licensed nurses.
Responsibilities
Under the continuous direct on-site supervision of a Registered Nurse (for nursing care beyond that performed by nursing assistants once deemed competent for nursing assistant related tasks):
Interprets plan of medical care and provides input on nursing care plan and assist in the following provided they have been deemed clinically competent by their nursing instructor.
Completes the nursing assessment form with oversight and approval of RN.
Provides personal care including bath, shampoo, shave, back rub, positions changes, makes beds, prepares patients for meals, feeds patients and passes ice water.
Answers call lights and bells promptly to determine and meet patient needs.
Collects specimens, stool, urine, sputum, etc.
Collects input and output and records appropriately.
Collects and records vital signs on patient. Obtains and records pertinent patient information per hospital policy.
Assist and/or feeds patients. (enteral feedings included), provides between meal nourishments, provides fresh drinking water and encourages fluids when indicated.
Assists in progressive ambulation of patients by wheelchair, stretcher and bed.
Administers enemas, douches and inserts rectal tubes and documents appropriately.
Applies ace bandages and elastic stockings and sequential compression devices.
Inserts catheters and feeding tubes.
Applies restraints and side rails to ensure safety of patients.
Observes isolation technique and give direct care to patients in isolation.
Assists in ostomy care and education.
Set up orthopedic appliances.
Performs nursing functions requiring skill and judgement (supervised by RN).
Maintains records and reports necessary information in regard to patient care.
Confers periodically with the RN on activities of the nursing staff and matters related to nursing care.
Assists in patient and family education as directed by the RN.
Serves as a liaison between the patient and other members of the health team.
Prepares patients for surgery and other therapeutic and diagnostic procedures.
Maintains a safe environment for patient care.
Place IV infusion devices under the direct supervision/immediate presence at the bedside of the supervising nurse.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
High school diploma or GED equivalent.
Enrollment in Board of Nursing approved School of Nursing Registered Nurse Program
Completion of Nursing Fundamentals and/or basic Med/Surg clinical rotation.
(Will vary per school)
- Program Duration: 6-12 Months
- Program Candidates: Enrolled in an Accredited Registered Nurse Program
- Minimum Requirements:
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Frequently asked questions
Applicants must be enrolled in a board-approved nursing program and have completed at least one med/surg clinical rotation. Essential prerequisites include a high school diploma or GED, instructor recommendations, background clearance, and documented clinical skills like vital sign measurement and patient care basics.
Unlike entry-level nurses, Nurse Extern Tier IIs assist with complex nursing tasks under RN supervision, such as specimen collection, catheter insertion, and patient education support, providing a bridge between student learning and licensed nurse duties within clinical settings.
Completing this externship enhances clinical competence and prepares candidates for RN licensure. It offers valuable hands-on experience, which can accelerate progression into registered nursing roles, specialty units, or advanced nursing education programs.
Appalachian Regional Healthcare emphasizes direct RN supervision and tailored clinical skill development, fostering a supportive learning environment that integrates patient care assistance with ongoing mentorship to build professional nursing competencies.
The healthcare system promotes collaborative teamwork and patient-centered care in a rural setting, encouraging externs to engage directly with multidisciplinary teams and adapt to community health needs while gaining practical nursing experience.
Nurse Extern Tier II positions in Hazard typically offer hourly wages from $15 to $20, influenced by clinical experience and educational progress. This range reflects regional healthcare compensation trends for nursing students engaged in externship programs.
While demand for nursing externs is steady due to regional healthcare growth, applicants benefit from meeting all program requirements promptly. Local competition is moderate, with preference given to candidates demonstrating strong clinical skills and academic standing.
Besides enrollment in an accredited nursing program, candidates must pass background checks and physical screenings. While no additional certifications are mandated, familiarity with infection control and patient safety protocols is highly advantageous.
Strong communication for patient interaction, keen observation for vital signs and specimen collection, and adaptability to assist with procedures like catheter insertion and feeding tube management are vital for excelling in this role.
This program offers a comprehensive clinical experience in a supportive rural healthcare environment, emphasizing hands-on training under direct RN guidance, which uniquely prepares externs for future nursing licensure and diverse patient care scenarios.