Acting as the first point of contact for patients in a hospital or clinic, an intake RN reviews patient injuries, take their vital signs and prioritizes treatment. All of this takes place quickly in order to ensure patients receive care as quickly as possible.

The nature of your work as an intake nurse demands a thorough medical knowledge so you can accurately determine which patients need attention first. Often an intake nurse is the first person a patient sees or talks to, which means intake nurses can have a big impact on a patient’s overall impression of a healthcare facility. Intake nurses need to combine a welcoming and helpful attitude with the ability to assess a patient’s needs. Working as an intake nurse involves carrying a great deal of responsibility.