Roles and Responsibilities of a Registered Nurse

# Understanding the Roles and Responsibilities of a Registered Nurse ## Core Clinical Responsibilities ### Patient Care and Assessment - Monitoring vital signs (blood pressure, temperature, heart rate) - Conducting physical examinations - Reviewing medical histories - Administering medications and treatments - Performing wound care and dressing changes - Managing IV lines and medical equipment - Assisting with daily activities like bathing and dressing ### Emergency Response * Recognizing and responding to medical emergencies * Participating in code blue situations * Providing life-support interventions * Assisting in trauma care ## Communication and Coordination ### Team Collaboration 1. Physicians 2. Specialists 3. Physical therapists 4. Social workers 5. Pharmacists ### Documentation * Patient assessments * Administered treatments * Medication records * Care plan updates * Incident reports ## Patient Education and Advocacy ### Health Promotion RNs educate patients and families about: - Disease prevention - Medication management - Lifestyle modifications - Self-care techniques ### Patient Rights - Ensuring informed consent - Protecting patient confidentiality - Supporting patient decisions - Upholding [HIPAA regulations](https://www.hhs.gov/hipaa/index.html) ## Specialized Nursing Roles | Setting | Special Focus Areas | |---------|-------------------| | ICU | Critical care monitoring, ventilator management | | ER | Trauma care, triage | | Pediatrics | Child development, family-centered care | | Oncology | Chemotherapy administration, symptom management | | Geriatrics | Age-related health issues, quality of life improvement | ## Professional Development and Leadership ### Continuing Education - Complete required continuing education units - Maintain certifications - Stay informed about new medical technologies - Participate in professional organizations ### Leadership Responsibilities * Supervising LPNs and CNAs * Training student nurses * Developing policies and protocols * Monitoring performance * Participating in quality improvement initiatives ## Evolving Role in Healthcare The role of RNs continues to expand with: - Telehealth services and remote care - Research and education initiatives - Leadership and management positions - Implementation of new healthcare technologies ## Legal and Professional Requirements ### Compliance RNs must adhere to: * [State nursing practice acts](https://www.ncsbn.org/npa) * Facility policies * Professional standards of care ### Education and Licensing - Complete an approved nursing program - Pass the [National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN)](https://www.ncsbn.org/) - Consider advanced degrees (BSN, MSN) - Maintain current licensing requirements For more information about nursing careers and requirements, visit the [American Nurses Association](https://www.nursingworld.org/) or [American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN)](https://www.aacnnursing.org/).

Roles and Responsibilities of a Registered Nurse

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