Which statement best describes the role of a registered nurse?

Which statement best describes the role of a registered nurse?

• A. A nurse who has completed a 2-, 3-, or 4-year nursing program and has passed a licensing test, works legally under state nurse practice act, performs assessments, establishes nursing diagnoses, goals, and interventions, and leads team members.
• B. A physician who provides care under supervision.
• C. A licensed practical nurse who practices under a physician.
• D. A nursing assistant who provides basic care.

Answer: (A)

The key idea here is understanding the scope of practice and responsibilities of a registered nurse. An RN has completed an approved nursing program and passed the licensure exam, which grants legal authority to practice under the state nurse practice act. This allows the RN to perform comprehensive assessments, establish nursing diagnoses, and develop goals and interventions with the patient. The RN also coordinates care and leads other team members to ensure safe, effective care. This combination of licensure, independent assessment and planning, and leadership distinguishes the RN from other roles. Physicians provide medical care and supervision within a physician-led system, not the nursing scope described. Licensed practical (or vocational) nurses have a narrower scope and work under the supervision of an RN or physician. Nursing assistants provide basic daily care and do not perform nursing diagnoses or lead care teams.

The key idea here is understanding the scope of practice and responsibilities of a registered nurse. An RN has completed an approved nursing program and passed the licensure exam, which grants legal authority to practice under the state nurse practice act. This allows the RN to perform comprehensive assessments, establish nursing diagnoses, and develop goals and interventions with the patient. The RN also coordinates care and leads other team members to ensure safe, effective care. This combination of licensure, independent assessment and planning, and leadership distinguishes the RN from other roles.

Physicians provide medical care and supervision within a physician-led system, not the nursing scope described. Licensed practical (or vocational) nurses have a narrower scope and work under the supervision of an RN or physician. Nursing assistants provide basic daily care and do not perform nursing diagnoses or lead care teams.