A registered nurse is responsible for tasks associated with meeting the needs of patients. They perform basic duties that range from treating patients to educating patients and public on medical conditions. They also provide advice and emotional support to both patients and their families. Registered nurses also monitor a patients medical records and histories along with the symptoms of current ailment. They help to perform diagnostic test, operate medical equipment and analyze test results. Often times they administer treatments and medications and assist in the follow-up and rehabilitation of patients.
It is the responsibility of the registered nurse to also educate patients and their families on their particular injury or illness. They provide information necessary for treatment at home including diet and exercise regimens and self-administration of medicines and physical therapy. In some situations it is necessary for a registered nurse to provide grief counseling to patients and families who are experiencing illness that are critical or fatal. Registered nurses are also instrumental in educating the public on necessary information in regards to being aware of warning signs and symptoms of certain diseases. They are also available to provide information about treatment options and places to go for help. It is also possible for a registered nurse to assist in health screenings, immunization clinics, and blood drives.
While many registered nurses work in a variety of settings, there are those who choose to specialize in certain areas. In one example a registered nurse, or RN, can choose a specialty that is specific to the work setting or type of care provided. An ambulatory care nurse will generally treat patients who are suffering from a variety of illnesses or injuries on an outpatient basis. These treatments usually take place in a physician’s office or in other clinics. For nurses in this particular field, it is also possible to provide nursing instruction in a process called telehealth. This involves educating patients and giving advice through electronic communication such as videoconferencing and the Internet.
RN’s who work in critical or intensive care hospital units are called critical care nurses. They specialize in assisting patients who are experiencing cardiovascular, respiratory or pulmonary failure. Nurses who work in emergency rooms and aid patients with life-threatening conditions from an accident, heart attack or stroke are referred to as emergency or trauma nurses. These nurses may either work in the hospital emergency room or on the helicopter as nurses assisting in life flight transportation.
There are many types of registered nurses who provide services in many settings. Those seeking a career as a registered nurse will have plenty of options for administering their services.
