A registered nurse (RN) is a healthcare professional who provides patient care in a variety of settings. Their primary role is to promote and maintain the health of their patients by assessing, planning, implementing, and evaluating their care. The job description of a registered nurse may vary depending on the specific setting they work in, but generally, their responsibilities include:
- Patient Assessment: RNs assess patients’ physical and mental health, take medical histories, and document patients’ vital signs, symptoms, and medical histories.
- Planning and Implementation: RNs develop care plans based on patient assessments, collaborate with other healthcare professionals to provide the best care, and provide direct patient care, including administering medications, performing procedures, and managing symptoms.
- Patient Education: RNs teach patients and their families about managing their health conditions, medications, and treatments, and provide information about healthy lifestyle choices.
- Documentation and Communication: RNs document patient care, including medications administered and procedures performed, and communicate with other healthcare professionals about patients’ care plans, progress, and outcomes.
- Advocacy: RNs advocate for their patients’ rights and needs, and collaborate with other healthcare professionals to provide patient-centered care.
- Quality Improvement: RNs participate in quality improvement activities, such as data collection and analysis, to improve patient outcomes and the quality of care provided.
- Leadership and Management: RNs may serve as leaders and managers, supervising other healthcare professionals and delegating tasks to ensure quality patient care.
Overall, RNs play a critical role in the healthcare system, working to improve patient outcomes, prevent illness and injury, and promote health and wellness.
