What specialized role requires working under the supervision of a doctor and providing total patient care?

The role that involves working under the supervision of a doctor while providing total patient care is that of a registered nurse (RN). Registered nurses are integral to the healthcare system and are responsible for a wide range of tasks that include assessing patient needs, developing and implementing nursing care plans, administering medications, and coordinating care with other healthcare professionals. Their comprehensive education and training enable them to provide high-quality care to patients across various healthcare settings.

RNs often act as a liaison between patients and doctors, ensuring that patients receive appropriate medical attention and support throughout their care journey. Their ability to critically assess and respond to complex patient health issues is essential in delivering total patient care, making them an essential part of the healthcare team.

In contrast, licensed practical nurses (LPNs) have a more limited scope of practice and typically provide basic nursing care under the supervision of RNs or doctors. Nursing assistants (NAs) support RNs and LPNs by performing fundamental tasks like bathing and feeding patients, but they do not have the training to provide total patient care independently. Surgical technologists focus specifically on the operating room environment and assist during surgical procedures rather than on comprehensive patient care.