What Is Medical-Surgical Nursing?
Individuals trained in the field of medical-surgical nursing provide care to patients before, during and after surgical procedures. Medical-surgical nurses work as members of a surgical team that includes anesthesiologists, doctors and technicians. If you'd like to join the medical-surgical nursing field, you need to develop multiple skills and have the ability to work long hours.
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Before Surgery
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Medical-surgical nurses prepare patients for their impending surgeries. They explain the surgical procedure to the patient and answer any questions he may have about the surgery and recovery. Before heading into surgery, medical-surgical nurses monitor the patient's vital signs and perform any preoperative tests.
Surgery
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Nurses in the medical-surgical nursing field often accompany patients into the operating room and assist during surgery. While surgeons perform the operation, medical-surgical nurses monitor the patient's vital signs and pass surgical instruments to the doctor.
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After Surgery
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Medical-surgical nursing forms a critical part of post-surgical care. These nurses monitor patients continuously to ensure that the recovery goes as scheduled. Medical-surgical nurses observe patients around the clock to stay abreast of any complications or infections after surgery. Nurses also administer necessary medications and update families and friends on a patient's condition.
Training
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Anyone entering the medical-surgical nursing world must have at least a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing. This degree takes up to 4 years to complete. Nurses looking for a career in the surgical field must become licensed by passing the NCLEX-RN examination administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing. In order to remain certified in medical-surgical nursing, the Academy of Medical-Surgical Nurses requires individuals to complete 1,000 hours of clinical practice over a 5-year period and to have an unrestricted RN license to practice in the United States.
Abilities
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Medical-surgical nurses need the ability to play many different roles and perform multiple duties. Nurses must have a strong understanding of all medical and surgical terms. They also need to be caring and sympathetic, as almost every patient who comes through their doors needs their help and attention.
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