Full Career Description
A Registered Nurse serves as the heartbeat of health care, blending tech agility, empathy, and a commitment to holistic care. RNs work to promote health, prevent disease, and aid patients in coping with illness. They serve as advocates and health educators for patients, families, and communities. Direct patient care involves observing, assessing, and recording symptoms, reactions, and progress, performing technical nursing skills, assisting healthcare team members, administering medications, and participating in restoration and rehabilitation.
RNs also develop and manage nursing care plans, instruct patients and families in promoting healthy lifestyles, and contribute to improving and maintaining overall health. While state laws govern their practice, the specific job duties often depend on the work setting. RNs must graduate from a nursing program, pass a national licensing examination, and may hold licenses in multiple states.