Video | Registered Nurse

Registered Nurse

A Registered Nurse (RN) is a nurse who has completed all educational and examination requirements and has been licensed to practice nursing in their state. In many ways, RNs form the backbone of the U.S. healthcare system. They perform a range of duties and work directly with patients, doctors, and other healthcare professionals.

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About Registered Nurses

Registered Nurses (RNs) provide and coordinate patient care, educate patients and the public about various health conditions, and provide advice and emotional support to patients and their families. Most registered nurses work as part of a team with physicians and other healthcare specialists. Some registered nurses oversee licensed practical nurses, nursing assistants, and home health aides.

Registered Nurses’ duties and titles often depend on where they work and the patients they work with. For example, an oncology nurse works with cancer patients while a geriatric nurse works with elderly patients. Some Registered Nurses combine one or more areas of practice. For example, a pediatric oncology nurse works with children and teens who have cancer.

Key Tasks

  • Record patient medical histories and monitor patient conditions during treatments, procedures, or activities
  • Immunize patients and administer non-intravenous medications
  • Evaluate patient outcomes to determine effectiveness of treatments
  • Consult and collaborate with doctors and other healthcare professionals
  • Operate and monitor medical equipment

Key Skills

  • Communication
  • Problem Solving
  • Empathy
  • Adaptability
  • Technology Skills
  • Math

Education & Certifications

  • Most of these occupations require a bachelor’s degree
  • Receive a passing grade on either the National Council of State Boards - Registered Nursing Exam (NCLEX-RN) or the State Board Test Pool Exam (SBTPE) as a requirement for licensure

Local College/University Programs

  • Wilkes University
  • Luzerne County Community College
  • Penn State Scranton
  • University of Scranton
  • Misericordia University
  • Marywood University
  • King’s College
  • Lackawanna College

Industry Sector Employers

  • Elan Skills Nursing and Rehab
  • Allied Services
  • Geisinger
  • Regional Hospital of Scranton
  • Moses Taylor Hospital
  • Lehigh Valley Hospital
  • Maternal & Family Health Services
  • St. Joseph’s Center
  • The Wright Center

Sources