Highly Skilled and Essential: Registered Nurses at Winterberry

Here at Winterberry and in every healthcare setting in the country, Registered Nurses (RNs) play an integral role in ensuring the well-being of patients. These dedicated professionals are highly trained, compassionate, and vital members of the healthcare team. 

So what is an RN and what training do they have?

Becoming a Registered Nurse is no small feat. It requires rigorous education and training. Most RNs hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, although some may possess a diploma or associate’s degree in nursing. BSN programs typically take four years to complete and include both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience.

During their education, aspiring RNs learn a wide range of skills and knowledge. They study anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and medical-surgical nursing. They also gain proficiency in patient assessment, healthcare ethics, and the intricacies of the Canadian healthcare system.

Upon completion of their education, RNs must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to obtain their license to practice. This exam assesses their knowledge and competence in various nursing domains.

What can you expect an RN to do when caring for you?

Registered Nurses are versatile healthcare professionals who provide a multitude of services to patients across different settings. Their primary responsibilities include:

Patient Assessment: RNs are skilled in assessing a patient’s health condition. They conduct comprehensive physical exams, take medical histories, and analyze diagnostic tests to form a holistic view of the patient’s health.

Medication Administration: RNs administer medications to patients and monitor their response to treatment. They ensure that medications are administered safely and correctly, and they educate patients on proper medication management.

Wound Care: RNs work with patients as appropriate in wound assessment and management. They clean and dress wounds, monitor healing progress, and provide guidance on wound care to patients and their families.

Patient Education: One of the crucial roles of RNs is patient education. They teach patients about their conditions, treatment plans, and self-care techniques to promote better health outcomes.

Collaboration: RNs work closely with other healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurse practitioners, and allied health providers, to coordinate patient care and ensure the best possible outcomes.

Registered Nurses are often considered to be the heart of the healthcare system. Their dedication, education, and commitment to patient care make them indispensable members of the healthcare team here at Winterberry. 

Photo by Eben Kassaye on Unsplash