Role overview
A nurse provides direct patient care, administers treatment, and supports patients' recovery and comfort in hospitals, clinics and the community. In India they typically monitor vital signs, give medications, assist doctors with procedures, maintain records, and educate patients and families — combining clinical skill with compassion to keep patients safe, informed and cared for throughout their treatment.
A nurse usually has around 0–10 yrs of experience and earns typically ₹2L–₹7L/yr in India. The day-to-day blends Patient care, Vital-signs monitoring, Medication administration and more — this page gives you a ready-to-use nurse job description template you can copy, plus the exact skills and salary employers expect.
Key responsibilities
A nurse is typically responsible for:
- Monitor and record patients' vital signs and condition
- Administer medications, injections and prescribed treatments
- Assist doctors during examinations, procedures and surgery
- Provide wound care, hygiene support and patient comfort
- Educate patients and families on care, medication and recovery
- Maintain accurate, up-to-date patient records
- Respond to emergencies and changes in patient condition
- Follow infection-control, safety and clinical protocols
Requirements & qualifications
To succeed as a nurse, candidates usually need:
- A recognised nursing qualification (GNM, B.Sc Nursing or equivalent)
- Registration with the relevant State Nursing Council
- Clinical skills in patient care, medication and monitoring
- Compassion, stamina and the ability to stay calm under pressure
- Strong communication and teamwork in a clinical setting
Nurse skills
The most in-demand nurse skills on listings today:
Not sure which of these you're missing? A free OnJob profile runs your CV against every live nurse job and shows the exact skill gaps standing between you and a 100% match.
Typical salary & experience
Typical salary (India)
typically ₹2L–₹7L/yr
Experience range
0–10 yrs
These are typical ranges and vary by city, company and skills. For live, role-specific pay data, see the OnJob salary guide.
Nurse job description — FAQs
What does a nurse do?
A nurse provides direct patient care — monitoring vital signs, administering medications and treatments, assisting doctors with procedures, maintaining records, and educating patients and families. They keep patients safe, comfortable and informed throughout treatment.
What qualifications do you need to become a nurse in India?
You need a recognised nursing qualification such as GNM (General Nursing and Midwifery) or B.Sc Nursing, plus registration with your State Nursing Council to practise as a registered nurse.
Is nursing a good career in India?
Yes — nursing offers steady demand, meaningful work, and opportunities both in India and abroad. Experienced nurses can specialise (ICU, OT, paediatrics) or move into nursing supervision, education and administration.
How much does a nurse earn in India?
Staff nurses typically earn ₹2L–₹4L per year early in their careers and ₹5L–₹7L+ with experience or in specialised and metro roles. Government and abroad postings differ. Check our salary guide for current ranges.