Description
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 family members. Duties Registered nurses typically do the following: * Record patients' medical histories and symptoms * Administer patients' medicines and treatments * Set up plans for patients' care or contribute to existing plans * Observe patients and record observations * Consult with doctors and other healthcare professionals * Operate and monitor medical equipment * Help perform diagnostic tests and analyze results * Teach patients and their families how to manage illnesses or injuries * Explain what to do at home after treatment 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.