This means an ADN nurse is a healthcare professional who has an associate-level education. In order to practice as a registered nurse (RN), though, they will also need to have passed the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). ... ADN nurses work right alongside RNs who've obtained a four-year bachelor's degree.

What is the difference between ADN and RN?

The main difference between the two is that the ADN is a college degree while the RN diploma is, well, a diploma. Both programs take about two years to complete, and both are considered “entry-level.” They also both prepare students to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam for licensure.

What does an ADN nurse do?

New RNs with ADNs are generalists and handle a wide range of basic but critical tasks, such as taking health histories, giving medication, ordering tests, providing instructions to patients, helping patients prepare for procedures, and assisting doctors with patient exams.