JOB DESCRIPTION

Care for ill, injured, convalescent, and disabled persons in hospitals, clinics, private homes, nursing facilities, and similar institutions. Assess and manage patient/client responses to actual and potential health care problems.

SKILLS AND APTITUDES NEEDED

Should have a caring, sympathetic nature Must be emotionally stable to handle stress Ability to follow orders precisely Ability to accept responsibility Ability to direct or supervise others

Registered nurses (R.N.s) work to promote health, prevent disease, and help patients cope with illness. They are advocates and health educators for patients, families, and communities. When providing direct patient care, they observe, assess, and record symptoms, reactions, and progress; assist physicians during treatments and examinations; administer medication; and assist in convalescence and rehabilitation. R.N.s also develop and manage nursing care plans; instruct patients and their families in proper care; and help individuals and groups take steps to improve or maintain their health.

Most nurses in hospitals and nursing homes work a 40-hour week, but because patients need round-the-clock care, some work nights, weekends, and holidays. They often stand for long periods and help patients move in bed, stand, or walk. They are subject to back injuries when moving patients and shock from electrical equipment. Nurses may care for individuals with infectious diseases such as hepatitis. They must observe rigid guidelines to guard against dangers such as radiation, chemicals used for sterilization of instruments, and anesthetics.