What title may graduates of approved nursing programs use before obtaining their license?

The title that graduates of approved nursing programs may use before obtaining their license is "Nurse Extern." This designation allows individuals who have completed their nursing education to work in a clinical setting under supervision while they await licensure. It emphasizes that these individuals possess foundational nursing knowledge and clinical skills, providing them with an opportunity to gain practical experience.

Using the title "Nurse Extern" indicates to employers and patients that the individual is not yet licensed but has completed the educational requirements to practice nursing. This title can also facilitate a smoother transition into the role of a licensed nurse once the individual passes the necessary licensing examination.

In contrast, the other titles are not standard or officially recognized in the context of nursing practitioners transitioning from education to licensure. "Graduate Nurse" may be used informally in some regions, but it does not carry the same assurance of educational completion under a recognized program as "Nurse Extern." "Nurse Trainee" lacks formal recognition in many states, and "Nursing student" does not indicate readiness to practice in any capacity, as it implies that the individual is still engaged in their educational program.