An evaluation of a nurse extern program

Externships are meant to bridge the gap between the educational and practice setting for nursing. This project began with discussions of outcomes for nurse extern programs. The Schutzenhofer Nurse Activity Scale and the Meleis Nurse Self-Description Form were used to measure identified outcomes of professional activities and autonomy. Forty-one participants began the study, but 33 completed the pretest and posttest both. Analysis of data showed a positive correlation in Posttest 1 between age and the Meleis Nurse Self-Description Form (NSDF). Dimensions of professional activity changed most in older students. At the end of Phase 2, analysis of data showed significantly greater professional autonomy. However, no significant change in NSDF was seen throughout time. Participants reported increased self confidence.