HOW TO GET THERE
Typical pathway
A typical pathway into registered nursing often begins with secondary school courses that support science, math, and communication skills. After high school, a person may complete a nursing education program approved in their province or territory and then meet registration requirements to practise. Some students enter directly from secondary school into post-secondary study, while others may build related experience first. Ongoing learning is common in nursing because healthcare practices, technologies, and patient needs can change over time.
THE WORK
What you may do
- Assess patient needs and symptoms
- Monitor health changes and vital signs
- Provide nursing care and support
- Administer medications and treatments as permitted
- Teach patients and families about care
- Document observations and care plans
- Work with doctors and other health professionals
A DAY IN THE LIFE
What a day can include
A registered nurse’s day may begin with reviewing patient information and priorities for the shift. They often spend time checking vital signs, helping with care tasks, giving medications, answering questions, and coordinating with other members of the healthcare team. The workday can involve documentation, responding to changing patient needs, and supporting families as well as patients. Depending on the setting, the pace may be steady or quite busy, and plans can change quickly when patient conditions change.
SKILLS TO BUILD