Registered nurse

Registered Nurse

A Registered Nurse (RN) is a nurse who has graduated from a nursing program and met the requirements outlined by a country, state, province or similar licensing body to obtain a nursing license. An RN's scope of practice is determined by legislation, and is regulated by a professional body or council.

Registered nurses are employed in a wide variety of professional settings, and often specialize in a field of practice. They may be responsible for supervising care delivered by other healthcare workers, including student nurses, licensed practical nurses, unlicensed assistive personnel, and less-experienced RNs.

Education[edit | edit source]

Registered nurses must usually complete a degree program at a college or university. Some nurses may also receive additional training beyond their degree in a specialized area of nursing.

Licensing[edit | edit source]

After completing their education, prospective nurses must pass a licensing examination to become registered nurses. The licensing examination varies by country and by state in the United States.

Roles and functions[edit | edit source]

Registered nurses perform a wide variety of roles in healthcare. They may provide direct patient care, coordinate care with other healthcare professionals, educate patients and the public about various health conditions, and provide advice and emotional support to patients and their families.

References[edit | edit source]

External links[edit | edit source]

Registered nurse Resources
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