RN Job Information
Registered nurses, or RNs, are responsible for treating patients. They educate patients on medical conditions, methods of treatment and post-treatment procedures. They have many options for education and advancement. RNs face excellent job prospects depending on place of employment. RNs must work directly with patients and their families.
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Job Duties
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RNs treat patients by administering medicines and treatments, maintaining patients' medical records, running lab tests, assisting with rehabilitation for patients after medical treatment and offering emotional support to the patient and her family. RNs monitor dosages, begin IV lines and monitor the patient's progress.
Working Environment
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Registered nurses spend a significant amount of time standing, walking, stooping and bending. Some RNs may travel to the homes, care centers and schools of patients. RNs work extended hours including evenings, weekends, holidays and on-call shifts. They may work in hospitals, physicians' offices, schools or care centers.
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Education
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RNs must possess a diploma from a nursing program, an associate degree or a bachelor's degree, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Prospective nurses must also take and pass a national examination to obtain their nursing license.
Earnings
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The BLS states that the average annual salary for RNs in 2008 was $62,450. The top earners in the field made over $92,240, while the lowest 10 percent earned under $43,410.
Advancement Opportunities
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Registered nurses can advance to managerial positions or they may change specialties. According to the BLS, "nurses can advance from assistant unit manager or head nurse to more senior-level administrative roles of assistant director, director, vice president, or chief of nursing."
Job Outlook
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The BLS projects that job opportunities for RNs will increase by 22 percent through the year 2018. Technological advancements and an aging population will increase the demand for registered nurses. Physicians' offices will experience the highest growth percentage, while hospitals will have the least.
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References
- Photo Credit nurse hand with syringe doing injection image by fotosergio from Fotolia.com
