What is the Role of an RN?

[KB75]

I am a new LPN student and in my class there are a few CNAs. Most of the students are from NJ and NY. A few of the CNAs are saying that the role of the RN is mostly supervisory and to fill out paperwork. From what they are saying mostly CNAs and some LPNs do the majority of the labor involved for examples giving baths, diaper changes, giving treatments, medications etc. I am new to the health field and want to know if anyone out there agrees. From what I have read from these threads and some of my own experiences I would have to disagree with what the CNAs are saying. Perhaps it depends on the facility they work or the staff they work with.

RNs please don't take offense but I would really like some feedback.

Thanks

[SmilingBluEyes]

A good place to get precise information that applies in your homestate would be your State Board of Nursing, as roles of RN's and LPN/LVN's can vary by state. Good luck!

[nursbee04]

I am a new LPN student and in my class there are a few CNAs. Most of the students are from NJ and NY. A few of the CNAs are saying that the role of the RN is mostly supervisory and to fill out paperwork. From what they are saying mostly CNAs and some LPNs do the majority of the labor involved for examples giving baths, diaper changes, giving treatments, medications etc.

It depends on where you work. I work third shift on medsurg, and I typically have 6 patients total care, plus I am usually charge nurse at least three nights a week with a full patient load, no techs/CNA's. So I do everything for my patients (meds, tx's, pt care, paperwork, etc) PLUS being charge of the unit.

I agree w/ smilingblueyes, your SBON site is a great place to get specific info.

Good luck with nursing school! :)

[purplemania, BSN, RN]

In our facility (hospital) the RN is required to do the initial assessment, handle central lines, begin blood transfusions, do IV medication pushes, initate the plan of care, initiate patient education and delegate appropriately to co-workers.

[eak16]

It totally depends on the facility. Some hospitals use "team nursing" (look for recent thread on this) where the RN may only be doing assessments, certain treatements, and charting on several pt's. Here I do primary nursing, so I usually do EVERYTHING for my 3-4 patients (with the help of some wonderful CNA's that are shared between several RN's.) Everything includes AM care, peri care, keeping the family up to date, peripheral lab draws, organizing transport, pleading with dietary to bring my patient the right food.... lol