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Nursing Shortages

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A Registered Nurse is a licensed health professional who is responsible for ensuring that the delivery of nursing care is executed using the art of caring and the science of healthcare to focus on quality of life (Office of Professions, n.d.). The role of the Registered Nurse, however, goes well beyond that. They are educated professionals responsible for assisting in management, supervision, and direction of nursing care in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local Department of Health codes and regulations. To be able to perform each of the essential functions of this position, an RN will qualify by graduating from an accredited school of registered nursing and successfully passing the board exam for registered nurse in their state. Generally speaking, an RN must complete an associate’s degree in nursing, a diploma program, or a bachelor’s degree in nursing to qualify for their licensure examination (Fried & Fottler, 2011, p. 32). In New York State, Registered Nurses must renew their license every 3 years and complete 3 contact hours of Infection Control & Barrier Precautions training every 4 years. Upon initial licensing, the RN must also complete 2 contact hours child abuse (New York Board of Nursing State CE Requirements, n.d.). The Registered Nurses employed by my organization are responsible to assess residents and identify their needs with regard to their illness or condition and develop a comprehensive care plan to meet their needs. They are responsible to accurately document resident information for their medical record chart through the use of our facility’s computer software systems. They also may assist with the admission and discharge process of a resident, monitor the unit for resident and staff safety, pass medications and provide medical treatments to the residents. In addition, they may supervisor floor personnel during the

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