A nurse is an important member of the medical team, whether she is a registered nurse (RN) or a licensed vocational nurse (LVN). Nurses often provide the most patient care in hospital settings, carrying out doctor’s orders, administering medications, supervising the use of medical equipment, observing and directly caring for patients, and acting as a liaison between patients, their families, and physicians. A nurse’s job varies depending on where he or she works, and certain jobs can only be done RNs, not LVNs, due to the latter’s lack of training and education.
As previously stated, the primary distinction between an RN and an LVN is the length of training and education. LVNs typically have a two-year degree from a professional school or a community college. RNs typically have a bachelor’s or master’s degree and have more education and practicum experience than other healthcare professionals. The LVN earns less money and is unable to complete certain tasks. Most LVNs, for example, are unable to start IVs, though some may be able to draw blood if they have received phlebotomy training, and they may not be able to administer injections. In a hospital setting, the LVN assists the RN and works under the supervision of at least one other registered nurse. Helping patients, washing or cleaning patients, changing bed linens, taking vitals, and monitoring patients for an RN are all tasks that LVNs can perform.
The registered nurse is in charge of more direct aspects of the patient’s care. She or he notifies the doctor if a patient’s health or vital signs change unexpectedly, starts IVs, administers oral or intravenous medication, and answers questions from patients. Some nurses are experts in specific fields. Surgical nurses can work in a variety of settings, including doctor’s offices, clinics, birthing centers, and hospices. Some nurses work in the home health industry, where they supervise patients’ health and recovery at home.
Some nurses may decide to continue their education and pursue a career as an advanced practice nurse (APN). These nurses typically have a master’s or doctorate degree, as well as other certifications. APNs may play a more active role in healthcare; a nurse practitioner, for example, can diagnose and treat illnesses among other things.
Nurses can also work as administrative assistants in hospitals. They may be in charge of a ward, scheduling, supervision, employee reviews, and other aspects of the medical field’s business. Nurses may work with insurance companies, transcribe medical information, and supervise an office or other nurses or medical employees in doctors’ offices. Other nurses instruct students in nursing schools or universities, or educate communities about public health issues. Because of the wide range of jobs available in the nursing profession, there is a lot of variation in possible duties.