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Information About Registered Nurses

Registered nurses make up the biggest portion of the health care industry, with over two and a half million RNs working in the United States. Registered nurses see to the needs of patients in a variety of settings, including hospitals, doctors' offices, health clinics and specialized practices. A registered nurse's average salary in 2006, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, was well over $50,000. Registered nurses must pass an exam and be licensed in the state they are working in.

  1. Hospital RNs

    • More than half of all registered nurses in the U.S. work in hospitals. They provide treatment for patients, have the ability and authority to run tests, can inform patients as well as their family of their condition and prognosis, and advise patients about illnesses and health concerns.

    Different Facets

    • In the hospital setting a registered nurse can work in many areas. She may be working in the intensive care unit-which includes pediatric and neonatal care or be employed in the operating room. Registered nurses can also work in the cardiac care unit, the recovery floor of a hospital and in the emergency room.

    Additional Duties

    • The registered nurse also helps the medical staff by keeping thorough records, investigating any reports, and maintaining drug and medical supply inventories. She may also be a supervisor to nursing assistants.

    Supervisors

    • RNs may hold supervisory positions at nursing homes, doctors' offices, in home health care, and other facilities. Licensed practical nurses and other nursing personnel would typically be directed by a registered nurse.

    Education

    • Registered nurses must hold a bachelor's degrees, an associate's degree, or obtain a diploma from an accredited nursing program. The associate's degree takes two to three years to complete and most registered nurses follow this path.

    NCLEX

    • All registered nurses in the U.S. must pass the National Council Licensure Examination after first applying for a nursing license. The exam covers the components of nursing and has a fee of $200 as of February 2009.

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