Registered Nurse is the designation given to an individual who is licensed to practice professional nursing, holds ultimate responsibility for direct and indirect nursing care, is a graduate of an approved school for professional nursing, and is currently licensed as a Registered Nurse pursuant to M.G.L. c.112. Included in such responsibility is providing nursing care, health maintenance, teaching, counseling, planning and restoration for optimal functioning and comfort, of those they serve.

The Registered Professional Nurse functions as a health care team leader responsible for the safe delivery of patient-centered, goal-oriented care through the nursing process of assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation. The Registered Professional Nurse also directs and guides patient teaching and activities of ancillary personnel while maintaining standards of professional nursing.