Registered Nurse

Source: www.nursing.org

Registered Nurses (RNs) power the healthcare system, ensuring the intricacies involved in patient care flow smoothly. Without a strong workforce of RNs, the daily operations of healthcare would quickly grind to a halt. As healthcare demands shift from acute care to the management of chronic illness, the need for RNs is growing rapidly. The information here serves to introduce this rewarding and essential career.

What Does an RN Do?

A registered nurse is an individual who has graduated from either an ADN or BSN program and passed the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination). RN’s work in a variety of settings and their daily activities will vary depending on their specific work environment. However, there are some skills and situations that will be applicable to all RNs, regardless of their specific job.

Potential Work Settings

• Hospital
• Physician’s Office
• Home Healthcare
• Nursing Care
• Correctional Facilities
• Schools
• Clinics
• Military

What Does It Take to Become a Registered Nurse?

Skills

• Detailed and Organized
• Compassionate
• Mental and Physical Strength
• Patient and Resilient
• Stress Management
• Observant
• Critical Thinking and Judgement
• Responsible
• Communicative

Registered Nurse Salary Information and Job Outlook

• Annual salary range: $46,390 - $85,320
• Job Outlook: 2010 - 2.74 million jobs; 2020 - 3.45 million jobs