The Role of the RN

I am going through nursing school to become an RN, a registered nurse. There are several different types of healthcare professionals in hospitals and clinics, so what defines the RN role in compared to a registered practical nurse (RPN)? According to the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO, 2008), an RPN treats patients with conditions that are well defined, stable, established in a care program and with support systems in place. When a patient’s condition fluctuates the RN is then consulted and may need to intervene in the patient’s care. The RN will also be consulting with the doctor or physician in charge of the client, helping to develop an action plan, while the RPN will be consulting a RN for assistance. In many situations the RN will delegate jobs or patients to the RPNs for care as well. The reason I decided to become a RN is that I wanted more responsibility as a professional. I also am considering becoming a Registered Nurse Practitioner, (RNP), who would have more responsibility and the ability to prescribe medication and open family practices. These privileges come with another 2 years of schooling on top of your 4 years in the Bachelor of nursing program. Overall, although the job varies between the different levels of nursing they all have the same goal; the treatment and care of patients.

College of Nurses of Ontario, (CNO). (2008). Utilization of RNs and RPNs. Retrieved November 28, 2008, from, www.cno.org/docs/prac/41062_UtilizeRnRpn.pdf.