Exploring the Role of Registered Nurses
I recently got the amazing opportunity to be able to shadow multiple registered nurses through my high school’s program. Through my observations, I was able to expand my knowledge of what it means to be a registered nurse. Initially, I had thought that all RNs worked in the same sector, but to my surprise, RNs work in a multitude of different divisions of a hospital.
What exactly is an RN?
WebMD states, “A registered nurse (RN) is a licensed medical professional who provides hands-on care in different medical and community settings.” These settings include various things, including hospitals, doctor’s offices, nursing homes, prisons, long-term care facilities, homes, and more. And within those, RNs can work in even more specialized fields. You can find ER nurses, ICU nurses, Medical surgical nurses, pediatric nurses, nurse anesthetists, and more. The possibilities are endless!
What does an RN do?
Registered Nurses (RNs) assess patients' health, develop care plans, administer medications, monitor vital signs, provide patient education, assist in medical procedures, and collaborate with healthcare teams. They also offer emotional support and advocate for patients’ needs.
How do you become an RN?
Complete an Accredited Nursing Education Program: Enroll in and successfully finish an accredited nursing program, which can be a nursing diploma from an approved RN program, an associate degree in nursing (ADN), or a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN).
Prepare for the Licensing Exam: Get ready to take the licensing exam required to become a registered nurse.
Take the NCLEX-RN: Successfully pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN), which assesses your knowledge and skills necessary for safe and effective nursing practice.
Obtain State Licensure: Apply for and secure your nursing license in the state where you intend to practice. Be aware that licensing requirements can differ from state to state, so it’s important to research the specific requirements for RN licensure in your chosen state.
Overall, the process can take anywhere from 2 to 4 years or more, depending on things like whether you took a year to study or if you did an accelerated program and others.
The Rewarding Journey of Nursing
My experience shadowing registered nurses has shown me how varied and important their roles are in healthcare. RNs provide hands-on care in many settings and can specialize in different areas, like pediatrics or emergency care. This career is extremely rewarding and allows you to make a real difference in people’s lives. If you love helping others but do not want to spend countless years in medical school or residency, nursing could be the perfect choice for you!
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