Registered Nurse Job Description Template (Free, 2026)

Job Title: Registered Nurse (RN) Department: [Unit Name — e.g., Medical-Surgical, ICU, Emergency Department] Reports To: Nurse Manager / Charge Nurse Location: [City, State] | [On-site] Shift: [Day / Night / Rotating] | [8-hr / 10-hr / 12-hr shifts] Employment Type: Full-Time | Part-Time | PRN About [Facility Name] [Facility Name] is a [Magnet-designated / community / academic medical center] committed to delivering compassionate, evidence-based care. Our [unit name] team cares for [patient population description, e.g., adult medical-surgical patients with complex multi-system conditions] and maintains a nurse-to-patient ratio of [X:X]. Role Summary The Registered Nurse delivers direct patient care across the full nursing process — assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation. The RN coordinates with physicians, allied health professionals, and support staff to ensure safe, high-quality, patient-centered outcomes while maintaining compliance with regulatory and accreditation standards. Key Responsibilities • Perform comprehensive nursing assessments on admission and at each shift; identify changes in patient condition and initiate timely interventions • Develop and update individualized care plans in collaboration with the interdisciplinary team • Administer medications and IV therapies accurately, following the six rights of medication administration; document in [EHR name, e.g., Epic] • Monitor patient vital signs, laboratory values, and diagnostic results; report critical findings to the attending physician or NP/PA • Perform or assist with clinical procedures (wound care, catheter insertion, IV access, specimen collection) according to facility protocols • Educate patients and families on diagnoses, procedures, discharge instructions, and self-care management • Coordinate discharge planning with case management, social work, and the interdisciplinary team to ensure safe transitions of care • Respond to rapid response calls, codes, and emergency situations using ACLS/BLS protocols as required • Maintain accurate, timely documentation in the EHR in accordance with facility policy and regulatory requirements • Delegate appropriately to CNAs, LPNs, and other unlicensed assistive personnel; maintain accountability for delegated tasks • Participate in quality improvement initiatives, shared governance committees, and unit-based councils • Comply with all HIPAA, Joint Commission, and facility infection control standards Required Qualifications • Active Registered Nurse (RN) license in [State] or valid multi-state Compact RN license • Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited program • Current BLS certification (AHA or equivalent) • [ACLS certification — required for ICU/ED/telemetry; list if applicable] • Ability to lift/transfer patients (up to 50 lbs) and stand for extended periods Preferred Qualifications • BSN degree • 1+ years of clinical experience in [specific unit type] • Specialty certification relevant to the unit (CCRN, CEN, OCN, etc.) • Experience with [Epic / Cerner / Meditech] EHR • Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred for [patient population] Compensation & Benefits • Base Pay: $[X]–$[X] per hour, depending on experience and unit • Night/weekend differential pay • Sign-on bonus: $[X,000] (with [X]-month commitment) • Relocation assistance available • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance • Employer-matched 403(b) / 401(k) retirement plan • Paid time off and paid holidays • Continuing education reimbursement and certification pay • Career ladder program (RN I through RN IV) Work Environment This position requires sustained physical activity including standing, walking, and patient lifting/repositioning. Exposure to infectious agents, hazardous materials, and emotionally demanding situations is inherent to the role. Personal protective equipment (PPE) is provided in accordance with OSHA standards. [Facility Name] is an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or veteran status.