What does a Graduate Nurse do?
Published 3 min read
A graduate nurse is a nurse who has completed an accredited nursing program and has passed the national licensing exam. A graduate nurse may work in any type of healthcare setting, including hospitals, clinics, and doctor's offices.
Graduate Nurse job duties include:
- Administer patient care under the supervision of a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse
- Assist with or perform basic nursing care and procedures such as taking vital signs, turning and positioning patients, applying dressings, and collecting specimens
- Help to maintain a clean and safe patient environment
- Observe patients and report changes in condition to nurses
- Answer patient calls and provide them with comfort measures
- Assist patients in moving to different areas of the facility, such as from their bed to a wheelchair
- Help with feeding patients who are unable to feed themselves
- Provide emotional support to patients and their families
- Take and record patient medical histories
Graduate Nurse Job Requirements
A graduate nurse is a registered nurse who has completed an accredited nursing program at a college or university. Most states require that nurses complete a minimum of an associate’s degree in nursing, although some states now allow nurses to enter the workforce with a bachelor’s degree. In addition to completing an accredited nursing program, all nurses must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) in order to become licensed. Once licensed, nurses must complete continuing education credits on a regular basis to maintain their license. Although most graduate nurses begin their careers working in hospitals, there are many other employment options available, such as working in clinics, long-term care facilities, home health agencies, and schools.
Graduate Nurse Skills
- Communication
- Teamwork
- Critical thinking
- Problem solving
- Flexibility
- Stress management
- Time management
- Organization
- Patience
- Empathy
- Compassion
Related: Top Graduate Nurse Skills: Definition and Examples
How to become a Graduate Nurse
There are many ways to become a graduate nurse. One way is to attend a nursing school and obtain a degree in nursing. Another way is to attend a college that offers a nursing program. After completing the program, you will need to take the NCLEX-RN exam in order to become licensed as a registered nurse.
Related: Graduate Nurse Resume Example
Related: Graduate Nurse Interview Questions (With Example Answers)