Nurse Extern II - Rehab Program (STROKE Certified) - December 2026 Grads - St. Luke's

About the Role

The Inpatient Rehabilitation unit at Aurora St. Luke’s Medical Center is a stroke-certified program accredited by the Commission of Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). This role is ideal for future RNs aiming to work in community, population health, home health, or specialty areas. The unit serves a diverse patient population, including those with neuromedical diagnoses such as strokes, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, brain injuries, and other neurological impairments. Additional populations served include transplant patients (pre- and post-organ transplant), LVAD implantation patients, post-limb amputation, joint replacements, oncology, dialysis, and those in the Hyperbaric Oxygen Program (HBO).

The program provides advanced rehabilitation care through an interdisciplinary team approach, focusing on medical and functional needs to facilitate a safe discharge home. The unit is a 45-bed CARF-accredited facility where the nursing team collaborates closely with other disciplines to achieve optimal patient outcomes and satisfaction.

Responsibilities

• Under the observation of the Registered Nurse, complete activities of daily living, vital sign completion, and blood glucose monitoring.
• Collaborate with the Registered Nurse to establish a plan of care based on health, education, developmental needs, and patient/family preferences.
• Under the observation of the Registered Nurse, evaluate patient response to interventions and communicate observations and needs effectively.
• Develop delegation skills appropriate for Health Unit Coordinators, Nursing Assistants, and technical roles on the unit.
• Administer medication as delegated by the Registered Nurse, with prior evaluation of clinical judgment and proficiency.
• Manage an increased number of patients while incorporating time management principles into shift routines.
• Collect and synthesize relevant patient data to accurately identify patient status and needs.
• In emergency situations and under appropriate supervision, participate in activities where demonstrated knowledge and skill exist.
• Perform patient positioning and transporting duties, including lifting and pushing/pulling, while using proper technique.
• Demonstrate knowledge and skills necessary to provide age-appropriate care, including assessing data reflective of the patient’s status and interpreting age-specific needs.

Requirements

• Currently enrolled in an accredited or approved nursing program.
• Successful completion of a Medical Surgical Clinical.
• Successful completion of a Pharmacological Concepts course.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

• Must be able to sit, stand, walk, lift, squat, bend, twist, and reach above shoulders during the work shift.
• Must be able to:
  • Lift up to 50 lbs. from floor to waist.
  • Lift up to 20 lbs. over the head.
  • Carry up to 40 lbs. a reasonable distance.
• Must be able to push/pull with 30 lbs. of force.
• Must be able to perform a sliding transfer of 150 lbs. with a second person present.
• Will be required to use foot pedals on carts or machines.
• Must have functional vision and hearing.
• Will be exposed to mechanical, electrical, chemical, and radiation hazards, as well as blood and body fluids; protective clothing must be worn as necessary.
• Operates all equipment necessary to perform the job.

This job description outlines the general nature and level of work expected. The incumbent may be required to perform other related duties.