As a nursing intern, you will have the opportunity to work in a variety of healthcare settings, depending on the hospital or clinic you are interning for. However, there are several common duties and responsibilities that most nursing interns can expect to perform. In this article, we'll outline some of the most common duties and responsibilities of a nursing intern.
1. Assist with patient care: One of the primary duties of a nursing intern is to assist with patient care. This could include tasks such as administering medications, taking vital signs, and assisting with daily living activities.
2. Observe medical procedures: Nursing interns may also be responsible for observing medical procedures, surgeries, and treatments. This could include tasks such as observing patient consultations, attending rounds with physicians, and shadowing medical specialists.
3. Document patient information: Nursing interns must also document patient information, such as medical histories, medications, and vital signs. This information is crucial for physicians and other medical professionals to provide the best possible care to patients.
4. Assist with discharge planning: Nursing interns may also be involved in assisting with discharge planning tasks. This could include tasks such as arranging follow-up appointments, coordinating home care services, and educating patients and families on how to manage their conditions after discharge.
5. Attend educational sessions: Nursing interns may be required to attend educational sessions on various topics related to nursing, such as ethics, communication, and cultural competence.
6. Assist with research: Depending on the hospital or clinic you are interning for, you may be involved in assisting with research tasks. This could include tasks such as conducting literature reviews, collecting data, and assisting with statistical analysis.
7. Assist with administrative tasks: Nursing interns may also be responsible for assisting with administrative tasks related to the operation of a hospital or clinic. This could include tasks such as answering phones, responding to emails, scheduling appointments, and maintaining records.
8. Other tasks as assigned: As with any internship, nursing interns may be asked to perform a variety of other tasks as needed. This could include tasks such as running errands, assisting with office tasks, or assisting with other nursing-related projects.
In addition to these specific duties, nursing interns will also need to possess a range of skills and personal attributes, including:
1. Strong analytical skills: Nursing interns must be able to analyze data and make informed decisions based on that data.
2. Attention to detail: Working in nursing requires a high level of attention to detail, as even small mistakes can have significant consequences.
3. Strong communication skills: Nursing interns must be able to communicate effectively with a range of stakeholders, including patients, family members, and other medical professionals.
4. Ethical behavior: Nursing interns must adhere to strict ethical standards and act with integrity at all times.
5. Flexibility: Working in nursing can be unpredictable, and nursing interns must be able to adapt to changing circumstances and take on new tasks as needed.
6. Time management skills: Nursing interns must be able to manage their time effectively in order to complete tasks efficiently and meet deadlines.
7. Teamwork: Working in nursing often requires collaboration with others, and nursing interns must be able to work effectively as part of a team.
8. Emotional intelligence: Nursing interns must be able to demonstrate emotional intelligence and empathy, as they will be working with patients who may be experiencing significant emotional stress.
9. Technical proficiency: Nursing interns must be proficient in medical equipment and technologies used in the nursing profession.
Let's face it student jobs are tough to get, you are competing against people that have work experience and are looking for a full time job. But you can find part time jobs for students. Ideally you want to find an internship because that will give you work experience in your chosen field. Jobs for students typically pay less than those of a full time employee, there are less benefits as well. But the benefit to you is immense. It's competitive, but don't distress, search student jobs and summer internships in nursing and get your career started on the right path!
