The people in this group provide direct, hands-on patient care, most often carrying out doctors’ orders but also initiating care based on their own clinical judgment and observation at the patient’s bedside. They provide near continuous monitoring of a patient’s progress and response to treatment and have a strong tradition of patient advocacy. At the highest level (Registered Nurses) they are required to have a bachelor’s degree, though many hold a master’s degree. Others in this group (Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses, Medical Assistants) train in certificate programs.