Registered Nurse Career Overview
About the Role
Registered nurses assess patient conditions, administer medications and treatments, coordinate care with physicians and other healthcare professionals, and educate patients and families about health management. The scope of practice varies by specialty and setting, but core responsibilities remain consistent across the profession. RNs conduct comprehensive physical assessments, monitor vital signs, and evaluate changes in patient conditions. This involves using clinical judgment to identify subtle changes that may indicate complications or improvement. In acute care settings, nurses may assess patients every 2-4 hours, documenting findings in electronic health records and communicating concerns to physicians. Administering medications safely represents a critical nursing responsibility. RNs verify medication orders, calculate dosages, prepare and administer medications through various routes (oral, intravenous, intramuscular, subcutaneous), and monitor patients for therapeutic effects and adverse reactions. Nurses serve as the central point of communication among healthcare team members. They coordinate with physicians, physical therapists, social workers, and other specialists to ensure comprehensive patient care. This includes scheduling procedures, arranging consultations, and facilitating discharge planning.
Key Responsibilities
- •Conduct comprehensive physical assessments and monitor vital signs
- •Administer medications through various routes and monitor for adverse reactions
- •Coordinate care with physicians, therapists, and other healthcare professionals
- •Educate patients and families about disease management and lifestyle modifications
- •Document assessments, interventions, and patient responses in electronic health records
Essential Skills
How to Become a Registered Nurse
Three primary educational routes lead to RN licensure: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) takes 2-3 years and costs $6,000-$40,000, offering faster entry but many hospitals now prefer BSN degrees. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) requires 4 years and costs $40,000-$100,000+ but provides better career opportunities and preparation for graduate education. Direct-Entry Master's programs (2-3 years, $50,000-$120,000) are designed for individuals with bachelor's degrees in other fields. All nursing programs combine classroom instruction with clinical practice, totaling 500-1,000 supervised hours. Core curriculum includes anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, pathophysiology, and specialized nursing theory across medical-surgical, maternal-child, pediatric, psychiatric, and community health nursing. When selecting a program, verify accreditation through the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
Career Path & Advancement
The career trajectory for a Registered Nurse offers multiple avenues for growth. Starting as an entry-level professional, you can advance through specialized certifications, higher education, or management roles. For example, RNs can become Nurse Practitioners or CRNAs with advanced degrees, significantly increasing autonomy and salary.
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