Registered Nurse duties and responsibilities

The duties of an RN may vary depending on the work environment, but they generally include the following:

• Observe and record patient behavior
• Perform physical examinations and diagnostic tests
• Collect patient health history
• Counsel and educate patients and their families on treatment plans
• Administer medication, change wound dressings and care for other treatment options
• Read and interpret patient information, making treatment decisions when appropriate
• Consult with supervisors and doctors to decide on the best treatment plan for patients
• Direct and supervise nurses, nurse assistants and nurse aides
• Research ways to improve healthcare processes and improve patient outcomes