Nurse Extern

Rutherford Regional Health Systems; Rutherfordton (NC); On-site; USD 25,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Rutherford Regional Health System, part of Lifepoint Health, invites nursing students to join as a Nurse Extern. You will gain hands-on clinical experience while supporting the patient care team under RN supervision, focusing on safety and compassionate care.

This program is designed to help you grow your skills, confidence, and clinical judgment as you prepare for RN licensure, with opportunities to collaborate across disciplines and participate in patient education and discharge planning.

Qualifications

• Current student in an accredited School of Nursing (1st year or higher).
• Active CNA certification.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required.

Responsibilities

• Works collaboratively with the patient care team to support safe, high‑quality care.
• Performs direct patient care under the direction, delegation, and supervision of a Registered Nurse.
• Assists patients with activities of daily living, including hygiene, elimination, nutrition, and mobility.
• Monitors, records, and communicates patient condition to the supervising RN.
• Documents care provided in accordance with hospital standards.
• Maintains positive, professional relationships with patients, families, coworkers, and the healthcare team.
• Collaborates across disciplines to support patient care needs, including transfers, discharges, referrals, and psychosocial support.
• Evaluates patient and family learning needs and provides age‑appropriate education as directed.
• Advocates for the physical and emotional well‑being of patients.
• Supports performance improvement initiatives and contributes to a culture of safety.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Skills

Critical thinking

Teamwork

Communication

Adaptability

Clinical learning

Patient care

Education

Current nursing student (1st year+)

Active CNA certification

BLS certification

Job description

Your Experience Matters

Rutherford Regional Health System is part of Lifepoint Health, a diversified healthcare delivery network with facilities coast to coast. We are driven by a profound commitment to prioritize your well‑being so you can provide exceptional care to others. As a

Your Experience Matters

Rutherford Regional Health System is part of Lifepoint Health, a diversified healthcare delivery network with facilities coast to coast. We are driven by a profound commitment to prioritize your well‑being so you can provide exceptional care to others. As a Nurse Extern, you will gain valuable hands‑on clinical experience while supporting our mission of making communities healthier. This role is designed to help you grow your skills, confidence, and clinical judgment as you prepare for your future as a Registered Nurse.

Join us on this meaningful journey where your dedication, compassion, and commitment to learning will make a real difference in the lives of the patients and families we serve.

How You'll Contribute

A Nurse Extern who excels in this role:

• Works collaboratively with the patient care team to support safe, high‑quality care.


• Performs direct patient care under the direction, delegation, and supervision of a Registered Nurse.


• Assists patients with activities of daily living, including hygiene, elimination, nutrition, and mobility.


• Monitors, records, and communicates patient condition to the supervising RN.


• Documents care provided in accordance with hospital standards.


• Maintains positive, professional relationships with patients, families, coworkers, and the healthcare team.


• Collaborates across disciplines to support patient care needs, including transfers, discharges, referrals, and psychosocial support.


• Evaluates patient and family learning needs and provides age‑appropriate education as directed.


• Advocates for the physical and emotional well‑being of patients.


• Supports performance improvement initiatives and contributes to a culture of safety.


• Performs other duties as assigned.

Why join us

We Believe That Investing In Our Employees Is The First Step To Providing Excellent Patient Care. In Addition To Gaining Invaluable Clinical Experience, This Position Offers

• Comprehensive Benefits: Multiple levels of medical, dental, and vision coverage for eligible employees.


• Financial Protection & PTO: Life and disability insurance options, paid family leave, and paid time off.


• Financial & Career Growth: Tuition assistance, loan support, and a 401(k) retirement plan with company match.


• Employee Well‑being: Mental, physical, and financial wellness programs, including virtual care, mental health resources, and discount programs.


• Professional Development: Hands‑on clinical experience, mentorship, and opportunities to transition into RN roles upon graduation.

What We're Looking For

Education & Requirements

• Current student in an accredited School of Nursing (1st year or higher).


• Active CNA certification.


• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required.

Skills & Abilities

• Strong critical thinking and sound judgment.


• Ability to work with minimal supervision.


• Comfortable working in a fast‑paced or stressful environment and taking appropriate action.


• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.


• Commitment to compassionate, patient‑centered care.

Schedule

• Self-scheduling PRN; must work a minimum of 24 hours/month to remain enrolled in the Nurse Extern program.

More About Rutherford Regional Health System

Rutherford Regional Health System is a 143‑bed acute care facility serving Rutherford County and surrounding communities. We are committed to providing high‑quality, patient‑centered care and offer a wide range of services, including emergency care, cardiology, orthopedics, women's services, and surgical services. As part of Lifepoint Health, we are focused on strengthening healthcare delivery and improving access to care in our community.

EEOC Statement

Rutherford Regional Health System is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to Equal Employment Opportunity for all applicants and employees and comply with all applicable laws prohibiting discrimination and harassment in employment.