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.
Festus, MO 63028
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 36 hours per week, rotating through a variety of units while learning directly at the elbow of a Mercy nurse.
Participating in a Mercy Externship will help you:
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
These reflections highlight what sets the Mercy Nursing Externship apart: supportive teams, real hands‑on experience, and opportunities to grow in a welcoming environment.
For questions, reach out to Katie Slinkard, Recruiter, at Katie.Slinkard@Mercy.Net.
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.
At Mercy, care is more than a job - it’s a calling.
Every day, our caregivers bring compassion, skill and purpose to the communities we serve across Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri and Oklahoma. Whether you're building your career at the bedside, in a clinic or supporting care behind the scenes, you’ll find meaningful ways to make an impact - while growing in a way that’s uniquely yours.
As a physician-led, integrated health system with more than 50 hospitals and nearly 1,000 care sites, Mercy combines advanced technology, collaboration and a shared commitment to better care.
Rooted in a faith-based mission and inspired by the legacy of the Sisters of Mercy, our work is guided by a deep sense of purpose - to care for the whole person and serve our communities with compassion and dignity.
Here, you’ll find an environment where you’re supported to grow, connected to a team that cares and empowered to do your best work.
Because at Mercy, there are many paths - but one calling.
