Registered Nurses (RNs) are described as which of the following?

• A. A nursing professional who delivers therapy and treatment to patients as prescribed, educates patients and the public about various medical conditions, and provides emotional support to both patients and family members
• B. A licensed practical nurse
• C. A physician assistant
• D. A medical resident

Answer: (A)

Registered nurses are nursing professionals who provide direct patient care as part of the medical team. They implement therapies and treatments prescribed by physicians, monitor how patients respond, and adjust nursing care as needed. They also educate patients and families about health conditions, treatment plans, medications, and what to expect during recovery, while offering emotional support to both patients and their loved ones. This combination of hands-on care, following physician orders, educating patients, and providing support is what characterizes the nursing role. The other descriptions describe different health care roles: a licensed practical nurse has a more limited scope of practice, a physician assistant is a clinician who diagnoses and treats under physician supervision, and a medical resident is a doctor in training.