Roles and Responsibilities of Registered Nurses

# Understanding the Roles and Responsibilities of Registered Nurses ## Core Clinical Responsibilities ### Patient Care and Assessment - Conducting physical assessments and taking medical histories - Developing and implementing individualized care plans - Monitoring vital signs and patient conditions - Managing wound care and dressing changes - Implementing pain management protocols - Administering medications and treatments ### Documentation and Care Coordination 1. Recording patient symptoms and responses 2. Updating electronic health records (EHRs) 3. Documenting medication administration 4. Maintaining treatment progress notes RNs work collaboratively with healthcare teams to develop and execute comprehensive treatment plans, serving as liaisons between physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers. ## Education and Advocacy RNs serve as educators and advocates by: - Teaching patients about managing health conditions - Providing medication protocols and lifestyle modifications - Offering preventive care measures - Giving post-discharge care instructions - Protecting patient rights and dignity - Ensuring informed consent - Maintaining confidentiality > Protecting patient rights and advocating for their needs are fundamental responsibilities of registered nurses. ## Specialized Areas of Practice Many RNs develop expertise in specialized fields, including: ### Critical Care Nursing - Monitoring critically ill patients - Using advanced equipment to track vital signs - Providing life-saving interventions - Responding to changes in patient conditions ### Pediatric Nursing - Assessing growth and development - Administering vaccinations and treatments - Managing childhood illnesses ### Geriatric Nursing - Managing chronic conditions - Promoting independence and quality of life - Supporting elderly patients' well-being ## Leadership and Management Senior RNs often take on additional responsibilities: * Mentoring new nurses * Coordinating shift assignments * Overseeing nursing assistants * Managing unit operations * Developing and implementing policies * Participating in quality improvement initiatives ## Technology and Professional Development Modern nursing requires proficiency in: ``` - Electronic Health Records (EHR) - Medical devices and monitoring equipment - Digital communication systems - Telehealth platforms ``` To maintain their skills and licensure, RNs must engage in: - Continuing education courses and workshops - Professional conferences and seminars - Online learning modules and webinars - Certification programs - Advanced degree pursuits ## Research and Evidence-Based Practice Many RNs contribute to the advancement of nursing practice through: * Participating in clinical research * Implementing evidence-based protocols * Contributing to nursing literature * Presenting at professional conferences --- For more information about nursing careers and responsibilities, visit the [American Nurses Association](https://www.nursingworld.org/), [National Council of State Boards of Nursing](https://www.ncsbn.org/), or explore resources from the [American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN)](https://www.aacnnursing.org/).

Roles and Responsibilities of Registered Nurses

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