Registered nurses often work in hospitals or outpatient facilities, where they provide hands-on care to patients by administering medications, managing intravenous lines, observing and monitoring patients' conditions, maintaining records and communicating with doctors. They are also relied upon to give direction and supervision to nurse aides and home health aides.
Beyond the physical support and care they provide, registered nurses provide emotional support to patients and patients' family members. They may educate patients and the general public on disease management, special diet plans and medical conditions. They help patients and their families understand how to manage their diseases or health issues and provide information on home care after their treatment. They may also teach individuals how to self-administer medication or complete other self-care tasks.
Nurses employed by physician offices and other types of facilities may have different duties depending on the level and type of care being offered.