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Careers/Healthcare/Registered Nurse

Registered Nurse

Healthcare

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Registered nurses provide and coordinate patient care. They educate patients and the public about various health conditions, and provide advice and emotional support to patients and their family members.

Education

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

Experiences

Coming soon

Why this career matters

Nursing shortages are a persistent, nationwide problem. Nurses are the backbone of healthcare: they spend more time with patients than any other provider. The work is demanding but deeply fulfilling.

What you actually do

1
Assess patients' conditions and record medical histories
2
Administer medications and treatments prescribed by physicians
3
Coordinate care with other healthcare providers
4
Educate patients about managing their health conditions
5
Operate and monitor medical equipment
6
Perform diagnostic tests and analyze results

A day in the life

A typical day starts with reviewing patient charts and medications. You'll assess vital signs, administer treatments, coordinate with doctors, comfort patients, and document everything. No two days are the same: you might handle a routine check-up in the morning and an emergency in the afternoon.

Key skills

Observe's own list, not government data.

Critical thinkingCommunicationCompassionAttention to detailPhysical staminaEmotional stability

Work environment

HospitalsClinicsHome healthSchools12-hour shifts commonPhysically demanding

Related careers

Observe's own list, not government data.

Physician AssistantNurse PractitionerMedical AssistantHealthcare Administrator

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