What does a registered nurse do?
Registered nurses play an essential role in the medical system. As skilled healthcare professionals they provide care to patients through physical and emotional support. Working with doctors, nurses help to implement and manage patient care plans. Nursing is a hands-on role, often involving physical duties. As a nurse, you would administer treatment and medication, provide injury and wound care, and assist with personal hygiene tasks such as bathing and toileting.
Roles in nursing exist in private and public hospitals, medical clinics, residential aged care facilities, schools and more. As a nurse you may also choose to specialise in an area such as metal health, gerontology, midwifery, paediatrics, or oncology.
Is a career as a registered nurse right for me?
If you enjoy caring for others and have an interest in medical treatment you might excel in a career in nursing. Other skills and attributes beneficial for this role include:
- strong communication skills
- the ability to work well under pressure
- a strong stomach for medical incidents
- good interpersonal skills
- an empathetic nature
- the ability to work both independently and as part of a team
- good problem-solving abilities.
How to become a registered nurse
If you are considering a nursing career, there are various pathways you can take to achieve your goal. Registered nurses play a crucial role in providing healthcare and support to patients across diverse settings.
Generally, a nursing career path starts with a bachelor’s degree in nursing. This can take anywhere from three to four years of full-time study to complete. Nurses also need to register with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia.
At UniSQ, we offer the following degrees in the area of nursing:
Average salary per week
$1295
Future demand
Strong
Industries
Related careers
Source:
© Commonwealth of Australia
Last updated May 2024.
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Registered nurse FAQs
What is the average registered nurse salary in Australia?
The average registered nurse salary varies based on factors such as location, experience and workplace setting. Please see the salary information on this page for further details.
What do registered nurses do?
Some of the typical registered nurse duties and responsibilities include:
- Assessing, planning, implementing and evaluating nursing care for patients according to accepted nursing practice and standards.
- Working in consultation with other health professionals and members of health teams to coordinate the care of patients.
- Providing interventions, treatments and therapies and monitoring patient responses to care plans.
- Answering questions and providing information to patients and families about treatment and care.
- Supervising and coordinating the work of enrolled nurses and other healthcare workers.
Are registered nurses in demand?
Yes! According to the the demand for registered nurses is strong. There is a consistent and growing need for skilled nurses in healthcare settings due to factors such as an ageing population, increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, and ongoing advancements in medical technology. Pursuing a nursing career path offers strong job prospects both nationally and internationally.
How long does it take to become a registered nurse?
The time it takes to go down a registered nursing career path depends on your education and experience. Typically, completing a bachelor's degree in nursing takes three to four years of full-time study. Some individuals may choose to undertake additional postgraduate studies to further specialise in nursing, this can take from one year to three years of full-time study.
At UniSQ, our Bachelor of Nursing will take you approximately 3-years of full-time study to complete.
What is the difference between enrolled nurse and registered nurse?
The main difference between an enrolled nurse and a registered nurse lies in their level of education, scope of practice and work environment. Enrolled nurses study within the vocational education and training (VET) system, typically completing a diploma or certificate in nursing. They work under the supervision of registered nurses and doctors, providing care in hospitals, aged care facilities, clinics, community centres, and other health-related settings. Enrolled nurses may also travel to patient residences and other sites within the community.
Registered nurses hold a bachelor's degree in nursing, which provides them with a broader scope of practice and greater responsibility in patient care. They are qualified to perform more complex clinical tasks and often take on leadership roles within healthcare teams. Registered nurses work in a variety of healthcare settings and are equipped to handle a wider range of medical conditions and treatments.
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