Question 1

What is the difference between a registered nurse and a nurse practitioner?

Accepted Answer

A registered nurse (RN) holds an associate's or bachelor's degree in nursing, passes the NCLEX-RN, and provides direct patient care including assessments, medication administration, wound care, and patient education. A nurse practitioner (NP) is an advanced practice registered nurse with a master's or doctoral degree who can independently diagnose conditions, prescribe medications, and order diagnostic tests. RNs work under physician orders, while NPs have a broader scope of practice that includes many functions traditionally performed by physicians.

Question 2

Can a registered nurse prescribe medications?

Accepted Answer

No. Registered nurses cannot independently prescribe medications. RNs administer medications ordered by physicians, nurse practitioners, or other authorized prescribers. They are responsible for verifying orders, checking for allergies and interactions, administering the correct dose via the correct route, and monitoring patients for therapeutic effects and side effects. To gain prescribing authority, an RN must complete advanced education and become a nurse practitioner or other advanced practice registered nurse.

Question 3

What does a home health registered nurse do?

Accepted Answer

A home health RN provides skilled nursing care in the patient's home, typically after hospitalization, surgery, or for ongoing management of chronic conditions. Services include wound care, IV therapy, medication management, vital sign monitoring, patient and caregiver education, and care coordination with physicians and specialists. Home health nurses assess the patient's condition at each visit, update the care plan, and communicate changes to the healthcare team. Medicare and most insurance plans cover home health nursing when ordered by a physician for homebound patients.

Question 4

How do I verify that a registered nurse is properly licensed?

Accepted Answer

You can verify an RN's license through your state board of nursing website, which maintains a public database of all licensed nurses. The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) also offers Nursys, a national nurse license verification database at nursys.com. Verification confirms the nurse's license status (active, expired, or disciplinary action), license number, expiration date, and any specialty certifications. Always confirm that the nurse holds a current, unrestricted license in the state where they are providing care.

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