LPN Extern

Ready to take your first steps into the world of nursing? Our externship program offers a unique and exciting opportunity for graduates of state-approved nursing programs to gain real-world experience and invaluable mentorship alongside licensed nurses. As an extern, you will be an integral part of the team, learning the essential skills and daily routines required to become a licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) while providing outstanding care to our residents. This is a temporary role designed to jumpstart your nursing career before licensure.
Essential Job Functions:
Shadow nursing staff:

Communicate and collaborate with the interdisciplinary team to ensure personalized care plans for each resident.
Take responsibility for learning and understanding the care needs of all residents under your supervision.
Conduct rounds and verify that care plans are being followed to deliver the highest quality care.
Assist with writing and updating resident assessments and care plans, and gain insight into the MDS and Quality Indicators.
Accurately document all physician orders, whether verbal or written, and notify the Unit Clerk to schedule necessary appointments.
Complete precise and honest documentation, including:
• Nurse charting (Daily Scheduled, MDS, Medicare, Charting by Exception, lab/diagnostic results)
• Completion of all assigned MDS assessments
Provide a thorough and accurate handoff report to the oncoming shift nurse.
• Ensure accuracy in your work and handle central supply items properly by scanning them for each resident.
• Report any errors immediately to the ADON/DON for timely correction.
• Immediately report any suspected abuse or neglect to the DON, ADON, or Administrator.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Knowledge of:
• Medical terminology, safety procedures, and infection prevention protocols.
• Emergency/disaster response and evacuation protocols.
• Resident rights, along with recognizing and reporting abuse and neglect.
Skills in:
• Operating tools, equipment, and materials used in resident care.
• Maintaining safety standards and following safety protocols.
• Communicating instructions both orally and in writing with clarity.
• Utilizing a computer and specialized software applications for resident care.
Ability to:
• Recognize and act upon any changes in a resident's condition, notifying the nurse for proper care.
• Identify situations beyond your scope and know when to ask for guidance.
• Demonstrate sensitivity and professionalism when interacting with residents and their families.
• Adhere strictly to your scope of practice and the Arizona State Board of Nursing Rules and Nurse Practice Act.
• Operate diagnostic equipment effectively.
• Build collaborative relationships with colleagues, residents, and family members.
• Read, write, and follow instructions with accuracy and efficiency.
• Maintain confidentiality, manage stress, and adapt to dynamic work environments.
• Uphold facility policies and procedures.
Required Minimum Education, Experience, and Training:
• Graduate of a state-approved nursing school.
• Must pass the NCLEX exam for licensure within 30 days of hire.
• Must secure a current Arizona State Board nursing license within 60 days of hire.
Special Job Requirements:
• Attend mandatory nursing meetings and continuing education sessions.
• Obtain and maintain an Arizona Department of Public Safety Fingerprint Card at your own expense.
• Keep CPR certification up to date.
• Complete annual Tuberculosis Testing.
• Finish 12 hours of required annual in-service training.
• Comply with all federal, state, and local communicable disease testing mandates.
EOE
Step into your nursing future with us! Gain valuable experience, develop essential skills, and make a meaningful impact on the lives of those we care for.