Position Title:

Department:

Job Description:

Open to nursing students graduating May 2027 or December 2027 from an accredited school of nursing

(4 week program starting Mid December 2026 and ending January 2027)

Completing an externship at OU Health provides a launching point for your nursing career and hosts a large variety of medical specialties including:

• Adult and pediatric intensive care
• Adult and pediatric oncology
• Adult and pediatric acute care
• Adult and pediatric cardiovascular surgery and intensive care
• Neonatal intensive care
• Obstetrics (Labor & Delivery, Mother-Baby Unit, Obstetric Special Care)
• Emergency care

Externs are expected to work full time (approximately 36 hours/week) Mid December 2026 - January 2027 as paid employees of the OU Health System with numerous opportunities to extend your employment with OU Health after completion of the externship. This opportunity provides individuals with the ability to expand clinical knowledge and gain exposure to the OU Health system. Preference will be given to candidates who demonstrate an openness to learning within a variety of clinical settings and patient populations. The externship will serve as an opportunity for expanding clinical knowledge, skills, and mentorship with nursing leaders in the OU Health system.  

General Description:

The Nurse Extern program is designed specifically for nursing students between their junior and senior year of nursing school. Under direct supervision, the Nurse Extern will work with a mentor in an area of clinical focus, such as: Pediatrics, Surgery, Emergency, Cardiovascular or Women’s Services, to receive training and expertise to aid in preparation for a professional career in nursing.

Essential Responsibilities:

Responsibilities listed in this section are core to the position. Inability to perform these responsibilities with or without an accommodation may result in disqualification from the position. 

• Works with a bedside mentor while performing basic patient care.
• May work with nurses in expanded or advance practice roles such as Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nurse Practitioners, Pain Management Nurses or Case Managers. 
• May provide presentations to healthcare team members or leadership.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

Education: Nursing student currently enrolled in an accredited school of nursing and between junior and senior year of the program. Minimum GPA of 3.0 required.

Experience: None.

License(s)/Certification(s)/Registration(s) Required:  Current Basic Life Support issued by the American Heart Association required upon hire.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:  

• Knowledge of nursing techniques and practices.
• Ability to perform basic patient assessment. 
• Good written and verbal communication skills. 
• Ability to establish effective working relationships with staff and coworkers. 
• Good computer skills. 
• Good problem solving skills.

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OU Health is an equal opportunity employer. We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including PTO, 401(k), medical and dental plans, and many more. We know that a total benefits and compensation package, designed to meet your specific needs both inside and outside of the work environment, create peace of mind for you and your family.