Registered Nurse

Updated: 07 January 2025

What Does Registered Nurse Mean?

A Registered Nurse (RN) is a healthcare professional who has completed a nursing program and fulfilled the requirements set by the state or relevant licensing body to obtain a nursing license. The scope of practice for a registered nurse is typically defined by legislation and regulated by a professional body or council.

Registered nurses can work in various professional settings but often specialize in specific fields, such as neonatal care. They may also oversee care services provided by other healthcare workers.

To maintain their license, registered nurses are required to participate in ongoing education and training.

Insuranceopedia Explains Registered Nurse

Registered nurses (RNs) perform a wide range of responsibilities, including providing and coordinating patient care, educating patients and the public about various health conditions, and offering advice and emotional support to patients and their families.

Their roles may include:

  • Providing direct patient care
  • Managing cases
  • Establishing nursing practice standards
  • Developing quality assurance procedures
  • Overseeing nursing care systems
  • Conducting clinical research
  • Training healthcare personnel
  • Delivering care in specialized settings

Registered nurses can work in diverse healthcare environments, such as hospitals, physicians’ offices, home healthcare services, and nursing care facilities. They may also work in non-medical institutions, including correctional facilities, schools, and the military.

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