What Do Nurses Do?

Discover the Most Common Nursing Duties and Responsibilities

Nurses are the backbone of the healthcare system, providing essential care, support, and expertise in a wide range of settings—from bustling hospital floors to quiet community clinics. Their role goes far beyond administering medications and monitoring vital signs; nurses are patient advocates, educators, critical thinkers, and compassionate caregivers. Regardless of their specialization, all nurses share core attributes such as strong communication skills, clinical competence, empathy, and the ability to make quick, informed decisions under pressure.

In this article, we’ll explore the 10 most common duties and responsibilities that define the nursing profession. Whether you’re considering a career in nursing, currently in training, or simply curious about what nurses do behind the scenes, this guide will provide insight into the diverse and dynamic tasks that nurses perform every day to ensure the health and well-being of their patients.

What is a Typical Schedule Like for an RN?

A typical schedule for a Registered Nurse (RN) can vary widely depending on the work setting, specialty, and employer. Here’s an overview of common scheduling patterns:

Hospital Settings: Many hospital RNs work 12-hour shifts, often from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. or 7 p.m. to 7 a.m., typically three days a week. This schedule allows for more days off but can be physically demanding. Some RNs rotate between day, evening, and night shifts, which can be challenging for maintaining a consistent sleep schedule. Additionally, hospitals require 24/7 care, so RNs often work weekends, nights, and holidays on a rotating basis.

Outpatient Clinics and Physician Offices: RNs in these settings usually work Monday through Friday during regular business hours, with minimal or no weekend shifts. Shifts are typically 8 hours long, providing a more predictable routine.

Home Health and Community Health: RNs often have flexible schedules based on patient appointments, which can include evenings or weekends. Some positions may require being on-call for emergencies.

Long-Term Care Facilities: RNs may work 8- or 12-hour shifts, covering day, evening, or night shifts to ensure 24-hour care.

School Nursing and Public Health: These roles typically follow a standard school or government work schedule, with weekends and holidays off.

While RNs benefit from flexible scheduling options, the demands of the job—such as long hours, night shifts, and emergency coverage—can be physically and emotionally challenging. However, this flexibility also allows many RNs to find schedules that fit their personal and family needs.

How Much Do Registered Nurses Make?

What is the Job Outlook for Registered Nurses?

According to the BLS,  the mean annual wage for a registered nurse as of May 2023 is $94,480.00, with the top 10 percent of earners making over $132,000. Salaries for RNs can vary significantly depending on geographic location, specialization, and level of experience.

Employment of registered nurses is projected to grow 6 percent from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations, according to the BLS. Job growth is anticipated in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals and outpatient care centers that offer same-day services like chemotherapy, rehabilitation, and surgery. Additionally, as many older adults prefer receiving care at home or in residential care facilities, the demand for registered nurses in these environments is expected to rise.

Top 20 Specializations for Nurses Based on Salary

Registered Nurses (RNs) have the opportunity to specialize in various fields, allowing them to align their careers with their interests and the evolving demands of healthcare. According to Nurse Journal, the top 20 specializations for nurses based on earning potential was derived from Payscale data from August 2024. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and specific area of specialization. Here is a brief summary of each:

1. Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA): CRNAs administer anesthesia and manage patient care during surgical procedures. This role requires advanced education and offers significant autonomy. The average annual salary is approximately $185,215 per year.
2. Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP): PMHNPs provide mental health services, including assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of psychiatric disorders. With a growing focus on mental health, this specialty is experiencing increased demand. The average annual salary is approximately $120,469 per year.
3. Nurse Midwife: Nurse midwives offer prenatal, delivery, and postpartum care, as well as routine gynecological services. They play a crucial role in maternal and infant health. The average annual salary is approximately $105,746 per year.
4. Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP): FNPs provide comprehensive healthcare services across all ages, focusing on preventive care and managing chronic conditions. Their versatility makes them valuable in various healthcare settings. The average annual salary is approximately $104,298 per year.
5. Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS): CNSs are experts in specialized areas of nursing practice, such as pediatrics, geriatrics, or critical care. They often serve as consultants, educators, and leaders within healthcare organizations. The average annual salary is approximately $101,027 per year.
6. Nurse Educator: Nurse educators are responsible for teaching and preparing the next generation of nurses. With the ongoing need for nursing education, this role is essential for the profession’s future. The average annual salary is approximately $84,736 per year.
7. Travel Nurse: Travel nurses take on short-term assignments in various locations, providing flexibility and the opportunity to gain diverse experiences. This role is particularly appealing for those seeking variety in their nursing careers. The average annual salary for a Travel Nurse is approximately $84,071 per year.
8. Informatics Nurse: Informatics nurses integrate nursing with information technology to manage and communicate data, information, and knowledge in nursing practice. As healthcare becomes increasingly digital, this specialty is growing in importance. The average annual salary is approximately $84,610 per year.
9. Oncology Nurse: Oncology nurses specialize in caring for patients with cancer, providing treatment, education, and support throughout the disease trajectory. Their role is vital in managing complex patient needs. The average annual salary is approximately $81,987 per year.
10. Nurse Researcher: These highly specialized nursing professionals conduct scientific studies, analyze data, and report their findings about illnesses and improving healthcare. They work in a variety of settings including hospitals and research laboratories. Based on a small sample size, the average annual salary for Nurse Researchers is approximately $81,500.
11. Dialysis Nurse: Dialysis nurses, also known as nephrology nurses, specialize in caring for patients with kidney-related issues. They assist and support patients undergoing dialysis treatments and monitor their progress to ensure treatment goals are met. The average annual salary for dialysis nurses is approximately $81,757.
12. Infection Control/Prevention Nurse: Infection control nurses specialize in preventing and controlling infectious diseases within healthcare settings. They develop and implement infection control policies, conduct staff training, and monitor infection data to prevent outbreaks. According to ZipRecruiter data from January 2025, the average annual salary for infection control nurses is around $91,445.
13. Trauma Nurse: Trauma nurses provide care for patients with severe injuries, such as those from accidents or violence. They perform tasks like administering CPR, monitoring patients, starting IVs, and administering medications and blood products. The average annual salary for trauma registered nurses is approximately $80,563.
14. Neonatal Nurse: Neonatal nurses care for newborn infants with health issues such as prematurity, birth defects, or infections. They work in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) and provide specialized care to these vulnerable patients. The average annual salary for neonatal nurses is approximately $78,182.
15. Acute Care Nurse: Acute care nurses provide short-term treatment for patients with severe injuries or episodes of illness, urgent medical conditions, or during recovery from surgery. They work in settings like hospitals and urgent care clinics. The average annual salary for acute care nurses is approximately $76,398.
16. Geriatric Nurse: Geriatric nurses specialize in caring for elderly patients, addressing issues related to aging such as mobility challenges, chronic diseases, and cognitive impairments. They work in various settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and home health care. The average annual salary for geriatric nurses is approximately $76,053.
17. Public Health Nurse: Public health nurses focus on improving community health by implementing educational strategies, preventive care, and wellness programs. They conduct health assessments, develop disease prevention strategies, and collaborate with community organizations. The average annual salary for public health nurses is approximately $72,317.
18. Nurse Advocate: Nurse advocates assist patients in navigating the healthcare system, ensuring they receive appropriate care and understand their treatment options. They may work in hospitals, clinics, or independently. The average annual salary for nurse advocates is approximately $72,155.
19. Pediatric Nurse: Pediatric nurses specialize in caring for children from infancy through adolescence. They provide routine care, administer vaccinations, and educate parents on child health issues. The average annual salary for a Pediatric Nurse is $81,100.
20. School Nurse: School nurses provide healthcare services within educational institutions. They address student health concerns, administer medications, conduct health screenings, and promote health education. The average annual salary for school nurses is approximately $51,532.

These specialties reflect the dynamic nature of healthcare and offer RNs opportunities to advance their careers while meeting critical patient needs.

Where do Registered Nurses Work?

Registered Nurses (RNs) are integral to the healthcare system, providing and coordinating patient care across various settings. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and specific area of specialization. According to BLS, as of May 2019, the industries with the highest levels of RN employment include:

Industry	Percent of industry employment	Annual mean wage
General Medical and Surgical Hospitals	30.69	$79,460
Outpatient Care Centers	15.47	$84,720
Home Health Care Services	11.86	$73,660
Nursing Care Facilities (Skilled Nursing Facilities)	9.43	$69,740
Offices of Physicians	7.47	$69,570

What are the Typical Duties of a Registered Nurse?

With specialization options come diverse work environments and the opportunity to create a highly customizable career as a registered nurse (RN). Whether you choose to work in a bustling hospital, a quiet clinic, a patient’s home, or a specialized unit, the core responsibilities of an RN remain integral to patient care. Regardless of your specialization, these are some of the daily tasks you’ll likely perform organized by common categories:

• Preparing Patients for Exams and Treatments: This involves ensuring patients are physically and emotionally ready for medical procedures. It may include explaining the process, gathering necessary supplies, and positioning the patient appropriately.
• Assessing, Observing, and Communicating with Patients: Registered nurses conduct thorough assessments to monitor patients’ health status. This includes checking vital signs, evaluating physical conditions, and actively listening to patient concerns to detect any changes in their health.
• Collecting Samples for Lab Testing: RNs are often responsible for drawing blood, collecting urine, and gathering other bodily fluids required for diagnostic tests, ensuring proper labeling and handling to maintain specimen integrity.
• Recording Symptoms and Medical History: Accurate documentation is crucial. RNs meticulously record patient symptoms, medical histories, and ongoing health updates to support effective diagnosis and treatment planning.
• Administering Medications and Treatments: Nurses manage medication schedules, administer injections, IV therapies, and other prescribed treatments while ensuring proper dosages and monitoring for potential side effects.
• Monitoring for Side Effects and Reactions: Continuous observation helps identify adverse reactions to medications or treatments. RNs respond quickly to any signs of distress, adjusting care as needed and notifying physicians of critical changes.
• Developing and Assisting with Patient Care Plans: Working closely with healthcare teams, RNs contribute to creating personalized care plans tailored to each patient’s unique health needs and goals.
• Operating and Monitoring Medical Equipment: From heart monitors to infusion pumps, registered nurses are trained to operate various medical devices, ensuring they function correctly and safely.
• Performing Wound Care: RNs manage wound care, including cleaning, dressing changes, and infection prevention, while monitoring the healing process and reporting complications.
• Educating Patients and Families: Education is a key role for RNs. They provide guidance on managing health conditions, understanding diagnoses, following treatment plans, and promoting healthy lifestyle choices to support recovery and wellness.
• Supervising Other Healthcare Staff: In many settings, RNs oversee licensed practical nurses (LPNs), licensed vocational nurses (LVNs), nursing assistants, and nursing students, providing mentorship, guidance, and ensuring quality care standards are met.

These daily responsibilities showcase the dynamic and multifaceted role of registered nurses, highlighting their critical contributions to patient health and the broader healthcare system.

What are the most common tasks of RNs?

Having provided some of the most common duties of an RN within a broad range of categories, let’s dive deeper into the specific tasks associated with the RN and APRN roles.

1. Catheterization

Catheterization is used to relieve urinary retention, which can lead to pressure on the kidneys and, if untreated, kidney failure. It is also used to measure residual urine or obtain a sterile urine specimen, particularly in women, and is often performed before surgery to ensure the bladder is empty. Nurses are responsible for placing and removing catheters, a fundamental skill, especially in nursing homes or geriatric care settings.

What is Catheterization?

There are three types of catheters: indwelling catheters, inserted into the bladder and secured with a small balloon; external catheters, or condom catheters, typically used for men with functional or mental disabilities; and short-term catheters, used briefly after surgery to allow the bladder to empty.

Read up on how to perform catheterization to learn more.

 

2. Blood Transfusion

Blood transfusion is a medical procedure used to replace lost blood or to treat certain medical conditions like anemia. It involves transferring blood or blood components, such as red blood cells, platelets, or plasma, from a donor to a patient. Blood transfusions are critical in emergency situations, surgeries, or for patients with chronic conditions requiring regular transfusions.

How is Blood Transfusion Done?

Nurses are responsible for administering blood transfusions, monitoring the patient for adverse reactions, and ensuring proper identification and compatibility of the blood type. There are different types of blood transfusions that nurses perform: autologous transfusions, where a patient donates their own blood for future use; homologous transfusions, where blood is donated by others; and directed donations, where blood is donated for a specific recipient.

Read up on  how to perform blood transfusions to learn more.

 

3. Tracheostomy

Tracheostomy is a surgical procedure in which an opening is created in the neck to provide an airway and remove secretions from the lungs. It is commonly performed for patients who require long-term ventilation or have obstructions in their upper airway.

What Role Does the Nurse Play in Tracheostomy?

Nurses play a vital role in tracheostomy care, whether the procedure is temporary—reversible after recovery—or permanent for long-term respiratory support. Their responsibilities include managing the airway, monitoring for complications, and educating patients on proper care and hygiene. Key tasks involve cleaning the stoma, changing the inner cannula, and ensuring proper ventilation settings to maintain airway safety and prevent infections.

Read how to perform tracheostomies to learn more.

 

4. Patient Counseling

Patient counseling involves providing guidance and support to patients to help them understand their medical condition, treatment options, and coping strategies. This process aims to empower patients to make informed decisions about their health and treatment plans, as well as address emotional and psychological concerns.

What Role Does the Nurse Play in Patient Counseling?

Nurses play a crucial role in patient communication, extending far beyond education during recovery. Because they typically spend the most time with patients, nurses are well-positioned to provide continuous support and guidance throughout the healthcare journey. Through patient counseling, they alleviate anxiety about upcoming procedures, discuss treatment plans, address lifestyle changes, and help manage chronic conditions.

By ensuring clear communication, empathy, and a supportive environment, nurses not only guide recovery plans but also empower patients to become more self-sufficient. This comprehensive approach helps reduce hospital readmissions and promotes long-term well-being.

Learn how to perform patient counseling tasks to further your knowledge.

 

5. Wound Care

Wound care is the management of injuries that affect the skin and underlying tissues. Proper wound care helps prevent infection, promotes healing, and reduces scarring. This may involve cleaning the wound, applying dressings, and monitoring for signs of infection or complications.

What Role Does the Nurses Play in Wound Care?

Their responsibilities include assessing and monitoring wounds for signs of infection or complications, debriding, cleaning, bandaging, and rebandaging wounds as needed, and collaborating with the medical team to determine the need for antibiotics or additional treatments.

Nurses also educate patients, families, and caregivers on proper wound care and infection prevention, ensuring they understand how to support the healing process at home. Additionally, they document wound progress to track healing and guide treatment decisions. Wound care can involve acute care for new injuries or chronic care for conditions like diabetic ulcers, with nurses providing thorough assessments, selecting appropriate dressings, and offering patient education to ensure optimal healing outcomes.

 

6. Intubation

Intubation is a medical procedure in which a tube is inserted into the airway to ensure proper breathing and ventilation, typically performed during surgeries or in emergency situations. It is used when a patient cannot breathe on their own or needs assistance with their airway. Intubation is typically performed by a nurse anesthetist, advanced practice registered nurse (APRN), anesthesiologist, or emergency medical personnel, depending on the clinical setting.

How is Intubation Done?

The procedure involves inserting a tube into the airway to maintain proper breathing. There are two common types: endotracheal and nasotracheal intubation. In endotracheal intubation, the patient is positioned on their back while the provider stands at the head of the bed. The mouth is opened, and a lighted instrument, such as a laryngoscope, is used to keep the tongue out of the way while guiding the tube through the mouth, down the throat, and into the trachea. Once the tube is correctly positioned, a small balloon at the end is inflated to secure it and prevent air from escaping. Nasotracheal intubation follows a similar process but involves inserting the tube through the nostril.

Read up on how to perform intubation to learn more.

 

7. Stitches

Stitches, or sutures, are used to close a wound or incision, promoting healing and reducing the risk of infection. Stitches are typically applied after surgery or traumatic injuries to hold the edges of a wound together. There are different types of sutures, such as absorbable and non-absorbable, and various techniques for applying them depending on the wound’s location and size.

What Role Does the Nurse Play in Placing Stiches?

The ability of nurses to place or remove stitches varies by state and is largely determined by state nursing board regulations. Generally, suturing is considered a minor surgical procedure and falls outside the scope of practice for most registered nurses (RNs). However, advanced practice nurses (such as nurse practitioners) and some emergency room RNs may be authorized to perform suturing, as they receive specialized training that qualifies them to handle more complex procedures. Even in these cases, the authority to place stitches depends on state-specific policies and the protocols of the healthcare facility where the nurse practices.

Read up on how to place sutures to learn more.

 

8. Ear Irrigation

Ear irrigation is a procedure used to remove earwax buildup or debris from the ear canal. It is typically performed using a warm saline solution or other irrigation fluid to flush out the ear, ensuring it does not cause discomfort or hearing impairment.

How is Ear Irrigation Performed?

There are various methods of ear irrigation, including using a syringe or a specialized ear irrigation system. Nurses commonly perform ear irrigation once a doctor confirms that the procedure is needed. The procedure starts with filling a syringe with a saline solution. A collection cup is placed beneath the ear to catch the solution and any dislodged earwax.

The nurse then gently inserts the syringe into the outer ear, aiming slightly upward and toward the back of the ear canal. By carefully depressing the syringe plunger, a steady stream of saline solution is introduced into the ear, a process known as irrigation. The fluid flows through the ear canal, loosening and flushing out earwax, which drains into the collection cup. This process may be repeated several times until the buildup is effectively removed.

Read up on how to perform ear irrigations to learn more.

 

9. Splints and Casts

Splints and casts are used to immobilize and protect broken bones or injured limbs, promoting proper healing. A splint is a supportive device that is applied temporarily to limit movement, while a cast is a hard, molded shell used to provide more secure and long-term immobilization.

What Role Does the Nurses Play in Managing Splints and Casts?

Although nurses typically do not apply splints or casts, they are often responsible for removing them. However, this can vary by state, as some advanced practice nurses are authorized to place both splints and casts depending on their training and state regulations. Additionally, unlike a splint, which is easily removed, casts can only be removed with a cast saw. This specialized saw has a flat, rounded metal blade that vibrates. This allows it to cut through the cast without injuring the skin underneath. When removing the cast, the doctor or nurse will cut the cast in several places, usually along both sides. The cast is then peeled open and lifted away. Scissors are then used to cut any protective padding and the stockinette beneath.

Read up on how to apply splints and casts to learn more.

 

10. Venipuncture

Venipuncture is the process of obtaining blood from a vein for testing, transfusion, or intravenous (IV) access. This procedure is commonly performed for diagnostic tests, to administer medications, or to start an IV line for fluids. Venipuncture is typically performed on the arms or hands, using a needle to puncture the vein and collect blood.

What Role Does the Nurses Play Nurse in Drawing Blood?

Nurses are trained to perform venipuncture with precision, ensuring patient comfort, minimizing the risk of complications, and properly labeling and handling the specimen. The process typically begins with the patient seated in a chair with an armrest, making a fist to help identify suitable veins.

The nurse examines the veins, applies a tourniquet to the upper arm to make them more prominent, and selects the best vein. A needle attached to a collection tube is then inserted, allowing blood to flow into test tubes or a small bag. If multiple samples are needed, the nurse switches tubes without removing the needle. Once the required blood is collected, the needle and tourniquet are removed, and a cotton ball with medical tape is applied to the insertion site.

Read up on how to draw blood to learn more.

Ready to Become a Registered Nurse?

We believe nurses are the backbone of healthcare, delivering essential medical care with professionalism, compassion, and the highest standards. As a nurse, you’ll make a difference in people’s lives every day while enjoying strong job security in a field that’s in high demand. Beyond job stability, nursing offers diverse career opportunities across various specialties, from pediatrics and critical care to public health and advanced practice roles.

You can work in hospitals, clinics, schools, community health organizations, or even pursue travel nursing to explore new places while gaining valuable experience. With continuous learning and professional development, nurses can advance into leadership, education, or research positions, opening doors to personal growth and higher earning potential. The flexibility, variety, and meaningful impact make nursing not just a job, but a lifelong, fulfilling career.

At Brookline College, we’re proud to offer three nursing programs in Arizona and New Mexico. Our Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is ideal for those looking to start or advance their nursing careers. For individuals who already hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree and want to transition into nursing, our Accelerated BSN program provides the perfect pathway, fast-tracking your career transition into nursing without a lengthy time commitment.