RN Role Indicators

Below are sample indicators of the role expected of nurses as practitioners:

• Clinical judgment/critical thinking reflects professional standards of care and practice and code of ethics in providing effective and safe patient outcomes.

• Assessment, planning, intervention, and evaluation of patient care are reflected accurately by complete and accurate documentation.

• Communicates pertinent patient information and plan of care before breaks, during transfer, and at shift report.

• Accurately completes routine assignments without the need for supervision.

• Checks charts each shift for accuracy of transcription orders.

• Properly complies with appropriate physician orders in a timely manner.

• Participates in the improvement process of quality patient care.

Source: Hader R, Sorensen ER, Edelson W, et al. Developing a registered nurse performance appraisal tool. JONA 1999; 29(9):26-32.