Registered
nurses (RNs), regardless of specialty or work setting, treat patients,
educate patients and the public about various medical conditions, and
provide advice and emotional support to patients' family members. RNs
record patients' medical histories and symptoms, help perform diagnostic
tests and analyze results, operate medical machinery, administer
treatment and medications, and help with patient follow-up and
rehabilitation.
RNs teach patients and their families how to manage their illnesses
or injuries, explaining post-treatment home care needs; diet, nutrition,
and exercise programs; and self-administration of medication and
physical therapy. Some RNs may work to promote general health by
educating the public on warning signs and symptoms of disease. RNs also
might run general health screening or immunization clinics, blood
drives, and public seminars on various conditions.
When
caring for patients, RNs establish a care plan or contribute to an
existing plan. Plans may include numerous activities, such as
administering medication, including careful checking of dosages and
avoiding interactions; starting, maintaining, and discontinuing
intravenous (IV) lines for fluid, medication, blood, and blood products;
administering therapies and treatments; observing the patient and
recording those observations; and consulting with physicians and other
healthcare clinicians. Some RNs provide direction to licensed practical
nurses and nursing aides regarding patient care. RNs with advanced
educational preparation and training may perform diagnostic and
therapeutic procedures and may have prescriptive authority. Specific
work responsibilities will vary from one RN to the next. An RN’s duties
and title are often determined by their work setting or patient
population served.
Note: Some resources in this section are provided by the US Department
of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics.
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