Can someone who is a RN describe to me what their job entails? ?

Question

I am interested in becoming a RN, but I want to know more.

Answer 1

I can't believe you don't know what a nurse does! Take care of sick people, give them medication, write notes in the charts, take blood pressures. Talk to a college adviser and even do a google search if you need to know more.

Answer 2

I'm an RN in the pediatric intensive care unit.  I have to be very knowledgeable of my patient's conditions and how they are treated.  I have to be able to administer many different medications and know what each medication does, what medications are compatible with it, and what the side effects of it are (as well as how to treat the side effects).  I have to run IV fluids, do lots of medication calculations (to double-check the pumps), work many different types of medical equipment, insert catheters, IV's, NG tubes, administer tube feedings, etc.  It's endless, really.  :)  Time management and organization are also key!

Also, many pediatric intensivists require an RN to help with in-room procedures.  I have to be familiar with those and the supplies they need.  Plus endless amounts of computer and paper charting to CYA (cover you a**).  :)

Also, your aides and externs will be the ones doing vitals (blood pressures, temperatures, etc.) unless you are in an intensive care unit, then the RN does it.  But, taking a blood pressure or temperature is by far the easiest things I have to do.  You also have to bathe patients, change diapers, empty urine from Foleys, get thrown-up on... just realize your patients are at their most vulnerable time and need your help and your actual care about their well-being more than ever.