An "RN" stands for Registered Nurse, a healthcare professional who has completed the necessary education and passed a licensing exam to provide patient care. RNs work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, and community health organizations, where they assess patient needs, administer medications, and coordinate care with other healthcare providers. To become an RN, individuals typically earn a degree in nursing, such as a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). After completing their education, they must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to obtain their license and practice nursing professionally.