RNs

Registered nurses (RNs) are licensed healthcare professionals who provide and coordinate direct patient care across a wide range of settings. They assess patients, monitor health status, administer medications and treatments, perform clinical procedures, manage intravenous therapies, and collaborate with physicians, midwives, therapists, and other staff to develop and implement individualized care plans. RNs also educate patients and families and support discharge planning and health promotion.

Education and licensure: In many countries, becoming an RN requires completing an approved nursing program—typically a diploma, associate degree (ADN), or bachelor of science in nursing (BSN)—and passing a national licensure examination. In the United States, licensure as an RN is granted by state boards of nursing after successful exam completion; maintenance requires ongoing continuing education and renewal. Other nations have analogous registration or licensure processes.

Scope of practice: The RN scope is defined by national or regional regulations and employer policies. RNs perform a mix of independent and delegated tasks, monitor patient status, interpret information, administer medications, and advocate for patients. Advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) such as nurse practitioners and clinical nurse specialists require further education and certification and operate with greater autonomy.

Environment and specialties: RNs work in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, home health agencies, schools, and community settings. Specialties include pediatrics, obstetrics, critical care, oncology, psychiatry, geriatrics, and public health. The role often involves coordination of care, patient education, and collaboration with other professionals to improve outcomes.

Regulation and ethics: Nursing practice is governed by professional standards and codes of ethics, focused on patient safety, confidentiality, and advocacy. The profession has evolved with advances in medicine and health systems and faces ongoing workforce planning considerations.