Nurse externship program graduates 19 soon-to-be RNs

Date: 08/02/2019

As a teaching medical center, Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center offers a ten-week summer extern program which provides nursing students with educational opportunities to improve their skills in relationship with RNs while providing summer employment. It is a great opportunity to gain a better understanding of the professional practice of nursing in a clinical setting.

On Friday, August 2, 19 nursing students graduated from our 2019 summer externship program, following a whirlwind program that saw them provide direct patient care under the supervision of a registered nurse. During their time with us, the externs gained hands-on experience, enhanced their assessment skills, and developed organizational and time management skills. Through a clinical rotation model, externs were introduced to various specialties of interest across the Medical Center including the OR, PACU, and critical care.

“This year’s team of externs were truly exceptional, each of whom will make a great nurse once they’ve completed their training,” says Carrie Barnes, BSN, RN-BC, clinical educator and extern program manager. “Not only were they exposed to various models of care across the hospital, but they also completed two service projects: one regarding the importance of proper oral hygiene to prevent pneumonia, and the other promoting and offering training to the community on the nationally recognized Stop the Bleed program. I couldn’t be more proud of the work they have done and I look forward to seeing where their careers take them.”

Successful completion of the externship program provides an opportunity for those externs that excel to be awarded scholarships for their senior year in college if there is a commitment to practice at Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center after graduation. Of this year’s 19 participants, all have applied to start their careers post-graduation at the Medical Center through our 12-month Nurse Residency Program.