What does a Registered Nurse (RN) do?
The primary responsibility of a Register Nurse is to treat and care for patients. Registered nurses facilitate the speedy recovery of patients through various treatment methods and procedures. They offer advice and emotional support to them and their families, educating them on medication use, healthy habits and preventive measures. Usually, RNs administer medication, monitor and record patients’ vital signs and look for symptoms of potential adverse drug reactions. They create and maintain accurate patient records and oversee the work of other nurses. The Registered Nurse is one of the few professionals allowed to handle controlled substances.
Registered Nurse (RN) skills and qualifications
A successful Registered Nurse candidate will have various prerequisite skills and qualifications needed to perform duties effectively. They are well-known for utilising their tolerant, calm and tender demeanour to provide care for patients experiencing pain and discomfort. These qualifications and skills include:
- Proven experience as an Adult Nurse or Registered Nurse
- Outstanding knowledge of nursing care procedures and methods
- Excellent understanding of health and safety protocols, including decontamination and sanitation
- Patient, compassionate and empathetic nature
- Knowledge of emergency care
- Ability to lead and work well as part of a team
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
- Valid nursing licence
Registered Nurse (RN) experience requirements
The experience requirements for Registered Nurse candidates depend on the role. RNs require different levels of experience for paediatrics, critical care, ambulatory care, clinical care and other specialities. It’s important to choose candidates who have adequate specialist expertise in your field. RNs should also have basic teaching experience because their responsibility includes training other nurses. Registered Nurses can gain vital experience through voluntary work in healthcare and social services.
Registered Nurse (RN) education and training requirements
Registered Nurses can qualify for employment if they have a degree in adult nursing from a Nursing & Midwife Council-approved programme. Some employers also accept candidates who have a background in psychology, social work, life sciences and related disciplines if the degree has a nursing component. In some healthcare establishments, employers provide a degree apprenticeship in nursing for employees looking to become Adult Nurses. Registered Nurses must register with the Nursing and Midwife Council to qualify for employment.
Registered Nurse (RN) salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for Registered Nurse candidates in the UK is £29,171 per year. Actual pay may depend on the employer, the location, the speciality, experience, qualifications and specific job duties and responsibilities.
Job description samples for similar positions
Here are job description samples for related roles if you are not looking to recruit a Registered Nurse: