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What does a Graduate Nurse do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

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)

Editorial staff

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Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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