What credential does a registered nurse (RN) hold?

A registered nurse (RN) holds a credential that is obtained through the completion of a nursing program and passing a licensing test, specifically the NCLEX-RN. This process verifies that the individual has met the educational and practical requirements necessary to provide competent nursing care. The nursing program might lead to either an associate's or a bachelor's degree, followed by the successful completion of the NCLEX-RN exam, which assesses the knowledge and skills needed for safe and effective nursing practice.

The other options reflect different levels of education and specialization that do not directly pertain to the basic credentialing for registered nurses. For example, holding a doctorate in nursing is a higher education qualification that goes beyond what is required to become an RN, and certification as a nurse practitioner signifies advanced practice licensure and additional education in a specialized area of nursing, which is a step beyond the RN status. Licensure in physical therapy is entirely separate and is unrelated to nursing credentials, as it pertains to a different profession altogether. Understanding these pathways is essential in recognizing the distinct qualifications that define the role of a registered nurse.