Nurse Externship - Mercy Fort Smith Summer 2026 Job Listing at Mercy in Fort Smith, AR (Job ID JR2423082)

Description

Find your calling at Mercy! As a student in an approved registered nurse or practical nurse school of nursing, the Nurse Extern student participates in clinical work under the direction of an RN. The Nurse Extern assists in the individualized care of the patient to achieve the patient's highest level of wellness working cooperatively with others as part of the healthcare team and performs designated clinical procedures and nonclinical support tasks within the nurse extern scope. Position Details:

Our Mercy Nursing Externship is a unique hands‑on learning experience designed to help nursing students bridge the gap between the classroom and real‑world practice. This paid externship gives you the opportunity to work approximately 24 hours per week (two 12 hour shifts), rotating through a variety of units while learning directly at the elbow of a Mercy nurse.

Participating in a Mercy Externship this winter will help you:

• Deepen your understanding of the nursing role within an acute care setting
• Build confidence in delivering both direct and indirect patient care
• Enhance your clinical skills through dedicated preceptor time, including: IV therapy Foley care NG tube care and tube feeding Ostomy care Point-of-care testing, phlebotomy, and specimen collection Simple dressing changes Head‑to‑toe assessments Trach care

You'll gain meaningful exposure to diverse patient populations, strengthen your critical‑thinking skills, and work closely with experienced nurses who are committed to supporting your learning and growth.

Externship Requirement: Applicants must have completed at least 2 semesters of nursing school, including a minimum of one round of clinicals, by the start of the externship

What Past Mercy Externs Are Saying-

• “I got to see so many things I never experienced during clinicals—like time in Ortho, PACU, and other specialty units.”
• “The nurses let me take the lead and practice my skills, which made such a difference in my confidence.”
• “The staff was incredibly supportive and helped me feel secure in what I was learning.”
• “I was met with kindness in every unit. It made the experience so meaningful.”
• “Getting to explore multiple areas was huge. It helped me understand what different units are really like and where I can see myself working.”

These reflections highlight what sets the Mercy Nursing Externship apart: supportive teams, real hands‑on experience, and opportunities to grow in a welcoming environment.

From day one, Mercy offers outstanding benefits - including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, tuition support, and matched retirement plans for team members working 32+ hours per pay period.

Join a caring, collaborative team where your voice matters. At Mercy, you'll help shape the future of healthcare through innovation, technology, and compassion. As we grow, you'll grow with us.