Kindred Healthcare·Palestine, Texas
The Nurse Extern assists Registered Nurses in providing direct and indirect patient care within an acute care hospital. Responsibilities include performing basic nursing tasks, documenting findings, and maintaining a safe patient environment.
Join Palestine Regional Medical Center in Palestine, TX, a 150-bed hospital that has recently earned the prestigious Leapfrog “A” Safety Grade, the Platinum Award for quality from parent-company ScionHealth, and certification as a Chest Pain Center and Level IV Trauma facility.
Palestine Regional provides a range of comprehensive care, including the latest in diagnostic, therapeutic, and rehabilitative services, both on an inpatient and outpatient basis.
Palestine Regional is an integral part of the local community, giving you the chance to grow your career while making a real impact close to home.
Job Summary The Nurse Extern is a nursing student enrolled in an accredited nursing program who works under the supervision of a licensed Registered Nurse (RN) in an acute care hospital setting.
The extern gains hands-on clinical experience by assisting in the delivery of direct and indirect patient care.
The role supports the healthcare team in providing safe, high-quality, and compassionate care across a variety of inpatient units, including medical-surgical, telemetry, and critical care.
Essential Functions Assists the RN in providing care based on the nursing process and unit standards Performs basic nursing tasks such as vital signs, bathing, feeding, ambulation, and patient hygiene under RN supervision Documents findings and care provided as permitted by policy and under RN oversight Communicates effectively with the RN and other care team members regarding patient needs and observations Maintains a clean, safe, and organized patient care environment Provides emotional support to patients and families while maintaining professional boundaries Demonstrates understanding of infection control, patient safety, and privacy regulations Observes procedures and participates in clinical learning opportunities as available and appropriate Performs non-clinical duties such as stocking supplies and transporting patients as needed Participates in department huddles, education sessions, and team meetings Knowledge/Skills/Abilities/Expectations Basic knowledge of nursing principles and practices appropriate to current level of education Ability to communicate clearly and compassionately with patients, families, and team members Strong desire to learn and grow within a professional clinical setting Demonstrates initiative, accountability, and respect for professional boundaries Proficient in basic computer and documentation skills Ability to function effectively in a fast-paced and emotionally demanding environment Must be flexible with schedule, including availability for weekends, holidays, and varied shifts
Education Currently enrolled and in good standing in a state-approved practical nursing program (LPN) or an accredited Associate or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program Completion of fundamentals of nursing course with clinical practicum, required Licenses/Certifications Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required Must meet all onboarding and health requirements of the facility Experience Previous healthcare experience preferred but not required
Candidates must be currently enrolled in an accredited LPN, Associate, or Bachelor of Science in Nursing program and have completed a fundamentals course with clinical practicum. A Basic Life Support (BLS) certification is required.
Market context
In Texas, nursing roles like this often draw steady demand in dialysis and other patient-care settings because employers need licensed LVN/LPN candidates who can start safely and learn specialized workflows. These positions can be competitive when they require a current license, preferred dialysis experience, and completion of a training program soon after hire. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then confirm you meet the license, color-recognition, and training expectations before applying.