In the US, a registered nurse (RN) is a healthcare professional who has graduated from a state-approved nursing school program and passed the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). Training to become a registered nurse involves both classroom learning and hands-on practical experience. The academic programs designed to prepare students specifically for the NCLEX-RN may include: a two-year Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), a four-year university Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, or a three-year diploma program. However, fewer than five percent of all current nursing students pursue this third type of training program.

Depending on the medical facility employing a particular registered nurse, daily duties might include reviewing patient charts, helping to design and implement patient care plans and providing information to patients’ families. Registered nurses also spend a significant part of their days supervising other nurses and their assistants, making sure all necessary tasks are addressed and completed.

Registered nurses generally work in hospital settings, doctors’ offices, various medical or specialty care facilities, operating rooms and intensive care units (ICUs). Many RNs find it both meaningful and profitable to personally contract out their services especially during nursing shortages. This approach provides them with more control over their work hours and pay. Others, however, like the fixed schedules and employee benefits that are generally more common to jobs offered in hospital and clinical settings.

A registered nurse typically oversees the work of many others health caregivers, including licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and other medical aides. RNs must be comfortable taking a leadership role in assigning duties to these other employees. Following their academic training, LPNs (also called Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) are required, in some jurisdictions, to pass a different state licensing exam than RNs called the NCLEX-PN.

While a registered nurse must address many managerial duties, LPNs and LVNs frequently handle more direct patient care tasks. They are often the first members of their health care team to note changes in patient care needs. LPNs also frequently administer patient medications and set up necessary intravenous (IV) fluids.

Some RNs also pursue alternate medical careers as nurse practitioners (NPs), legal nurse consultants and medical writers. Law firms are often eager to employ RNs to review client’s medical records and provide expert summaries of the care provided.