Daily Responsibilities of an RN – The World of a Registered Nurse
Thinking of taking a registered nurse course and becoming an RN? Fantastic! You are taking on one of the most challenging and rewarding medical careers in the world. You will earn a great salary while experience the high demanding nature that comes with the daily responsibilities of an RN.
The following is based on information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Registered Nurses.1
Daily Duties of a Registered Nurse:
- Consistently monitor and assess patients’ conditions
- Record patients’ medical histories and symptoms accurately
- Observe patients and record the observations
- Administer patients’ medicines and treatments
- Set up plans for patients’ care or contribute information to existing plans
- Consult and collaborate with doctors and other healthcare professionals
- Operate and monitor medical equipment
- Assist in performing diagnostic tests and analyze the results
- Explain treatment plans to patients and provide treatment plan
A lot of the intense decision making that registered nurses must perform daily is tested during the NCLEX. Most nurses plan to take our NCLEX review course to ensure they are ready for that level of decision making.
Where Do RNs Work?
There are a number of different RN jobs that each have their own challenges, salaries, and so on. The daily responsibilities of an RN change based on these specialties. Here are some of the most common and/or the highest paying RN jobs:
- Addiction Nurses
- Cardiovascular Nurses
- Critical Care Nurses
- Genetics Nurses
- Neonatology Nurses
- Nephrology Nurses
- Public Health Nurses
- Rehabilitation Nurses
- Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs)
Registered nurses spend all of their time in the medical setting, working long hours, most of the time on their feet, bending, and walking.
Who Do RNs Report To?
Registered nurses work closely with physicians in their chosen fields. Every RN is a highly educated, and intelligent medical professional that takes on the responsibilities of caring for people.
In both private and public medical settings, registered nurses report to doctors directly.
Sources:
[1]: Bureau of Labor Statistics – Registered Nurses
