Registered nurses (RNs) are the backbone of the healthcare industry, supporting doctors, surgeons, aides, technicians, and patients alike. The industry would likely collapse without the crucial role RNs play in patient care across various settings. From hospitals to homes, RNs are adaptable and work in diverse environments, caring for those who need it most.

Plus, the demand for RNs continues to rise. Almost 200,000 openings for registered nurses are projected each year, on average, over the next decade.

It’s clear that registered nursing is a great career choice. But as you research this path, you may find yourself wondering about your future career options, and where you might fit into the field. What is the work environment for a registered nurse, and what options are available?

What is a registered nurse?

A registered nurse (RN) is a licensed medical professional who collaborates with other healthcare providers to deliver quality patient care. Being a registered nurse means you’ll have a hand in every basket—your responsibilities include managing patient medications, observing patient symptoms, treating various conditions or ailments, and educating your patients about their health.

You may also find yourself speaking up and advocating for patients in your role as a registered nurse. Simply put, there can be lots of miscommunication between patients and healthcare providers. RNs use their knowledge and expertise to ensure their patients receive the best possible treatment and support.

Alongside RNs, several other common nursing credentials also prop up the medical field:

• Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN): Specializes in areas such as nurse practitioner, midwifery, or anesthetics
• Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA): Provides basic patient care under the supervision of an RN or LPN
• Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN): Offers primary nursing care, often under the guidance of RNs and physicians
• Nurse Administrator or Manager: Oversees nursing staff and healthcare operations

Each nursing credential offers a demonstrated knowledge in different specialized areas. Nurses may obtain as many credentials as they wish to open up opportunities for career growth. By understanding what roads you can take, you can choose the path that best aligns with your career goals and interests.

How do I become an RN?

Becoming a registered nurse is no piece of cake. You must complete several prerequisites before earning your credentials—the process requires dedication and education. Consult an academic counselor to help map out the best path to attaining your nursing licensure.

Here’s what the road to becoming a registered nurse could look like:

• Earn a nursing degree: Can be an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited nursing school
• Pass the NCLEX-RN exam: Proctored by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN)
• Meet all other state licensing requirements: Each state has specific standards and requirements for nursing practice

For those looking for a fast track to the field, nursing programs like an Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (ABSN) can speed up the journey to becoming an RN if you already have a degree in another field. Many employers prefer candidates with real-world experience, so seeking opportunities to work in healthcare settings during training can be even more beneficial.

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What is the work environment for a registered nurse?

RNs are the Jacks and Jills of all trades when it comes to workplace settings. They can work in a wide range of environments, administering patient assessments, treatments, and follow-ups.

Before we explore some specific work environments for RNs, there are a few duties that RNs perform across the board, no matter where they’re employed, worth noting. For example, in any RN work environment, you can find registered nurses:

• Assessing patients’ symptoms and observing problems or abnormalities
• Recording patient medical histories and current health
• Collecting lab samples and performing diagnostic tests
• Administering medications, treatments, and other interventions
• Monitoring patients for side effects and reactions
• Operating and monitoring medical equipment
• Collaborating with doctors on a patient’s treatment plan
• Educating patients and their families on treatment or preventative care
• Directing other staff, such as LPNs and CNAs
• Advocating for the health and well-being of patients

With so many important responsibilities, the registered nurse work environment can be demanding, at times—often dictated by schedule, responsibilities, and the type of patients they serve.

Examples of common work environments for RNs

Below are some of the most common workplaces for registered nurses. Each offers unique challenges, benefits, and opportunities for growth

Outpatient care clinics

Outpatient nurses typically work under physician supervision, handling patient care without the need for overnight stays. Due to the unpredictable nature of outpatient settings, RNs often need to make quick decisions in patient care.

These nurses may also be responsible for patient education and follow-up care, as well as monitoring the effectiveness of treatment. These settings offer a more consistent schedule, often with daytime hours, which can appeal to those seeking a balanced work-life routine.

Hospitals

Hospitals employ over 60% of all registered nurses. Within a hospital, RNs can specialize in different units, including:

• Emergency Room (ER) & Intensive Care Unit (ICU): These high-pressure environments require rapid response and critical thinking. RNs in these settings must be adept at handling trauma, administering life-saving procedures, and working collaboratively with a fast-paced medical team.
• Maternity & Pediatric Wards: This unit is focused on mother-child care and child health. Nurses in these areas provide prenatal care, assist with childbirth, and care for newborns and children.
• Research & Labs: RNs assist in medical studies and patient examinations. They help collect data, administer experimental treatments, and support advancements in medical science.

Hospital environments can be demanding, with long shifts, late hours, and exposure to a wide range of medical conditions. However, they also provide opportunities for career advancement, specialization, and skill development.

Home healthcare

Home healthcare nurses provide medical assistance to patients in their own homes. These patients may be recovering from surgery, managing chronic illnesses, or living with disabilities. This role offers a slower pace, deeper patient relationships, and more autonomy in care decisions.

Nurses in these settings often collaborate with families to develop care plans, educate caregivers, and ensure patients receive necessary medical interventions in a comfortable environment. They must be adaptable, as they often work independently and make critical decisions without immediate physician oversight.

Schools

School nurses support student health by monitoring chronic conditions (e.g., asthma, diabetes), ensuring immunization compliance, and educating students on healthy habits. Their role is essential in maintaining the well-being of students in primary and secondary schools.

They may also respond to injuries, provide mental health support, and coordinate with parents and faculty to promote student wellness. School nurses help create a safe and supportive learning environment, ensuring students remain healthy and ready to succeed academically.

Your career as a registered nurse

RNs, no matter the workplace, must be able to adjust to their environment to provide compassionate, patient-centered care. Staying updated on the latest medical practices in the industry helps you play a crucial role in delivering high-quality healthcare services.

Choosing a career as a registered nurse is a rewarding commitment with vast opportunities. As the healthcare industry evolves, the need for skilled and compassionate nurses remains strong. If you’re searching for a dynamic and fulfilling career, registered nursing offers diverse pathways and long-term job stability.

Explore nursing programs at Goodwin University to see if being an RN is the right choice for you!