Student Nurse Extern Program

• Identify and prioritize the care of the patient, applying knowledge and new skillsets in real time.
• Participate in hands-on opportunities to apply clinical skills in real-life situations.
• Gain confidence and experience to transition successfully into professional positions.
• Learn the communication skills needed to become comfortable and proficient in critical situations.
• Enhance problem solving/critical thinking abilities.

• Open to students with a GPA of 3.5 or higher who are anticipated to graduate between December 2024 and May 2025 with a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing (BSN) from an accredited nursing program
• Proof of active enrollment and current class standing
• Commit to nine-week program working 28 hours per week (24 hours in clinical area and four hours didactic lecture every Friday morning during program facilitated by SNE program leadership)
• Applications typically due in January with selections made in March and the program running mid May to the end of July 

The following departments participate in the summer Student Nurse Extern program. To learn more about the department, open the link to each area to learn more. 

• Acuity Adaptable: combined medical-surgical, telemetry and progressive care unit
• Richard M. Fairbanks Burn Center
• Critical Care
• Michael & Susan Smith Emergency Department
• Family Beginnings
• Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
• Kathi & Bob Postlethwait Mental Health Recovery Center
• Operating Rooms and Post-Anesthesia Care Unit
• Eskenazi Health Center primary care locations

The patient care technician I provides care for various patient needs in support of the patient care team, takes vital signs, assesses pain, monitors Accu-Chek, measures patients’ weight and height, and performs EKGs. May assist or provide for patient hygiene needs, perform linen changes, assist with dressing changes, measure intake and output, and draw blood. If working as a close observer, provides constant observation and reports changes in patient behavior or condition to the RN. Qualifications: high school diploma or equivalent with previous patient care experience preferred.

The patient care technician II is responsible for providing essential direct care to patients. This includes monitoring vital signs, assisting with daily activities, performing basic nursing procedures, collecting specimens and supporting patients emotionally. They also play a role in admissions and discharges, emergency response, equipment operation, and maintaining infection control. Working under the supervision of health care professionals, patient care technician II team members contribute to the overall well-being of patients by ensuring their comfort, safety and adherence to care plans. Qualifications: must be enrolled in nursing school and previous patient care experience is preferred.

Health care technicians play a vital role in patient care by conducting interviews, recording medical history and measuring vital signs. The position involves maintaining a safe environment, demonstrating professional conduct and ensuring compliance with organizational protocols. Duties include preparing patients for exams, assisting with procedures, collecting lab specimens, performing point-of-care testing and administering treatments. The technician also handles administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments, completing coding and billing tickets, and maintaining supplies. The role extends to orientation of staff, reporting abnormal findings to nurses and responding to changes effectively as part of a team. Qualifications: high school diploma or equivalent.

Support specialists provide skills training and development to clients in group and individual settings as guided by medical necessity outlined in the person-centered treatment plan. Skills training and development includes but is not limited to the following: home management, (laundry, cooking, cleaning, shopping, budgeting and payee ships), self-care management (bathing, dressing, grooming, nutrition, medication-consistency, assisting with medical follow up, attending medical appointments), and emotion management (communication skills, decision-making skills, coping skills, anger management). Qualifications: high school diploma or equivalent plus two years of experience in behavioral health and/or equivalent post-secondary education such as a bachelor’s or associate degree and valid Indiana driver’s license that meets Eskenazi Health’s driving policy requirements.

Acuity Adaptable mobility technicians facilitate the mobilization of patients after surgery as well as perform general nursing assistant duties on assigned unit(s). The role provides care to a designated group of patients under the direction of licensed staff and will follow unit guidelines and hospital policy, procedures and protocols to assist patients in achieving therapy and mobility goals. Qualifications: currently enrolled and pursuing radiology technician, physical therapy, occupational therapy, physician assistant or nursing degrees.