Registered Nurse (RN):
Registered Nurses (RNs) are not limited to working in hospital settings. RN nurses can also work within clinics, schools, assisted living facilities, homes, schools and more. They can also specialize in areas such as cardiac care, midwifery, family practice, geriatrics, labor and delivery and emergency nursing. A registered nurse would have to attend to patients at the time of diagnosis and during the recuperation or recovery phases if applicable. A nurse would be responsible for explaining reports to patients, administer medicine, conduct medical tests, and interpret test results. RNs also work very closely with physicians and therefore play a major role in the coordination and planning of a patient’s care,
Increased access to healthcare and an aging Baby Boomer population have led to high demand for registered nurses. In fact, employment for RNs is projected to increase 15 percent through 2026.
The daily duties can vary greatly depending on the healthcare setting. But on an average day, RN nurses might:
- – Observe and record patient behavior
- – Perform physical exams and diagnostic tests
- – Collect patient health histories
- – Counsel patients and their families
- – Educate patients about treatment plans
- – Administer medications, wound care, and other treatment options
- – Interpreting patient information and making decisions about necessary actions, where appropriate
- – Consult with nurse supervisors and physicians to determine best treatment plans for patients
- – Direct and supervise the care of other healthcare professionals, including licensed practical nurses, certified nurse assistants, and nurse aides
- – Conduct research to improve patient outcomes and healthcare processes
Nurses are constantly on their feet, stretching, bending, and standing. Therefore, nursing can be a strenuous job. In addition, exposure to infectious diseases and hazardous substances is also common. Nurses in the hospital and SNF setting work long hours and are usually assigned in shifts, due to patients needing 24 hour care. Nights, weekends, and holidays in addition to being on call are often required. Those who work outside of this setting such as in schools, offices, or other places have regular schedules.
There are three paths to become an RN: a bachelor’s degree in nursing, an associate’s degree, or a diploma/certificate from an approved nursing program. Some nurses earn a master’s or doctoral-level degree and work in management, research, or academic settings. Combining competence with compassion, nursing is a career that improves many lives.
