The nursing hierarchy generally includes several key levels:
1. Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs): CNAs provide basic patient care under the supervision of registered nurses. Their tasks include assisting with daily activities such as bathing, feeding, and monitoring vital signs.
2. Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs): LPNs perform a broader range of duties than CNAs, including administering medications, wound care, and collecting samples for testing. They work under the direction of registered nurses and physicians.
3. Registered Nurses (RNs): RNs are responsible for comprehensive patient care, including creating care plans, administering treatments, and educating patients. They may also supervise CNAs and LPNs.
4. Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs): APRNs, such as Nurse Practitioners (NPs), Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNS), Nurse Anesthetists (CRNA), and Nurse Midwives (CNM), have advanced education and clinical training. They can diagnose and treat medical conditions, prescribe medications, and often have greater autonomy than RNs.
5. Nurse Managers and Administrators: These roles involve overseeing nursing staff, managing budgets, and implementing policies. They ensure that the nursing team operates efficiently and effectively.
6. Chief Nursing Officers (CNOs): CNOs are the highest-ranking nursing executives in healthcare organizations. They are responsible for strategic planning, quality improvement, and representing nursing interests at the executive level.
