What is an RN?
RN is an abbreviation for registered nurse. An RN is a nurse that has completed a course of study and passed the proper examinations to become licensed and registered. Although there are more RNs than any other type of nurse in the U.S., there is still a great need for more registered nurses. This is often referred to as a nursing shortage. The reason there is such a need for registered nurses is that they provide the greatest level of care for many patients. An RN not only provides specific types of care, but also gives advice and helps coordinate other health services for patients. A registered nurse may be in charge of other nursing personnel such as interns, techs and volunteers. He or she may also be responsible for a patient’s overall case management, conferring with everyone from the patient to the primary care physician, as well as any therapists or specialists. To become a registered nurse, a nursing student must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) for RNs.
