Nursing is a very popular field of study to enter. It provides many benefits like job security, good salaries, opportunities for career advancement, and a fulfilling job that truly makes a difference.
All the different options for studying nurses can seem overwhelming. One of the most common choices is to become a registered nurse. But what exactly does a registered nurse do? What is the job like? How can you become one?
Read on to learn more about what registered nurses do and what the job is like.
What Does a Registered Nurse Do Every Day?
The tasks of registered nurses are varied, and often, no two days will look the same. Nurses are a pivotal part of a patient's care. A good way to broadly summarize their duties is that RNs will work directly with patients as well as with the larger medical team.
Some common tasks of registered nurses may include:
- assess patients' condition
- record patients' medical information
- administer medication and certain treatments
- collect lab work samples (blood, urine, etc.)
- work with physicians and medical team to create care plans
- perform wound care
- answer patient questions
The tasks for which registered nurses are responsible can also vary depending on the place of employment. There are many different kinds of facilities where an RN might work.
Where Can Registered Nurses Work?
There are many places where registered nurses can work. A wide variety of places require the services that RNs can provide, and the day-to-day work life may be different depending on where a nurse works.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, some of the most common places for registered nurses to work are:
- hospitals
- physician's offices
- home healthcare facilities
- nursing care facilities
Some other options include emergency rooms, schools, clinics, and more. The most popular working environment is hospitals, with 61% of registered nurses finding employment in hospitals.
What is the Difference Between Registered Nurses and Other Nurses?
There are many different job titles for nurses like registered nurse (RN), licensed practicing nurse (LPN), staff nurse, nurse practitioner, etc.
But what differentiates these positions? Most generally, it is the level of education and the tasks able to be completed by each.
For example, RNs typically need at least two years of education, commonly even more, and are able to operate more independently. LPNs need less education, but are typically supervised by RNs and cannot complete certain tasks.
Is Being a Registered Nurse a Good Job?
If the field of health care appeals to you, becoming a registered nurse could be a great career move. There is a thriving job market that is projected to continue expanding.
Additionally, the required education does not take as long as many other fields. There is a large variety of education opportunities available in the field of nursing.
Perhaps most importantly, working as an RN is a profession that makes a positive impact, directly caring for patients and helping to improve their lives.
Nursing Job Market
The field of nursing is a healthy job market and is expected to grow by 6% over the next decade according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This percentage is on par with most other occupations.
How to Become a Registered Nurse
Nursing requirements vary by state, but largely they require an accredited and approved education, exams, etc. Check with your state's nursing board for full requirements. Luckily, many approved sources of nursing education exist across the country.
What Degree Does a Registered Nurse Need?
Many degrees in the field of nursing exist, including associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees.
It is common to be able to gain employment in the field with an associate degree, which only takes two years. However, some employers would like a minimum of a bachelor's degree for their RNs.
An associate degree is a great place to start, and many programs exist to help nurses quickly expand their education, such as registered nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs.
Do You Have to Go to College to Be a Registered Nurse?
In order to become a nurse, you must complete an education program approved by the nursing board in your state. Typically, this takes the form of an associate or bachelor's degree, and at least an associate degree is required.
There are options for enter the field of nursing with less than two years of education, but these positions are more limited than that of an RN.
Pursue Your Career as a Registered Nurse Today
Now that you know more about RNs, does it sound like the career for you? If yes, start your journey toward becoming a registered nurse today!
