What does RPN mean in NURSING

An RN (Registered Nurse) works in a more advanced capacity compared to an RPN by providing direct patient care, assessing patient needs, developing plans of care, and administering medications. An RPN provides basic nursing care including taking vital signs, monitoring medical conditions and treatments, providing personal care and teaching patients self-care skills.

To become an RPN you must complete a college diploma program in Practical Nursing. You must then pass the licensing exam set by your provincial or territorial College of Nurses in order to practice as an RPN.

There are several options for advancing your career as an RPN including continuing education such as post-diploma certificates or degrees offered at universities or colleges; pursuing additional research opportunities; advancing within your current scope of practice; and pursuing leadership roles such as team leader or manager.