Surgical Scrub Nurse Description
A nurse may choose to work in many different settings or she may choose to specialize in a specific area of care. One such area of specialization is that of surgical nursing. Surgical nurses work with patients before, during and after a surgical procedure. They perform many important tasks to help make sure the surgical procedure is successful.
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Educational Background
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In order to become a surgical nurse, you must become an RN or registered nurse. Registered nurses complete two to four years of post-secondary academic training. An RN must also complete a term of working directly with patients as well as pass state licensing exams.
Specialized Training
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Once they've earned a registered nursing degree and licensure, many surgical nurses complete additional training in the field of surgery. Many positions require candidates to have at least two years of work in the field and even additional certifications. An RN first assistant performs minor surgical tasks under the direction of a physician. In order to become an RN first assistant, you must pass the Certified First Assistant Nurse Exam.
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Average Earnings
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According to SalaryExpert.com, the average surgical nurse salary varies depending upon the location of the job. Surgical nurses in Chicago can expect to earn more than $74,000 per year. Surgical nurses in Charlotte, North Carolina, can expect to earn more than $60,000 annually. Salaries for surgical nurses depend on many factors, such as the nurse's years of experience as well as her additional years of training.
Types
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There are several different types of surgical scrub nurses. Scrub nurses work directly with doctors during an actual surgical procedure. A scrub nurse often hands a doctor medical instruments and conveys information about a patient's vital signs to the doctor. Circulating nurses do not enter the operating field. Instead they may fetch supplies or monitor items used during the operation such as gauze. Perianesthesia nurses prepare patients for surgery by performing tasks such as inserting intravenous medication.
Specific Duties
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Surgical scrub nurses perform many different duties. A surgical nurse may review the requirements of preoperative care with patients to make sure they understand exactly what will happen during the procedure. Surgical nurses assist doctors during the surgery by helping them maintain a sterile field. After the surgery is complete, a surgical nurse may monitor the patient during the postoperative period. She will check to see that the patient is recovering from anesthesia, examine and treat any open wounds, and help the patient eat, drink and ambulate. A surgical scrub nurse will also help family members and the patient understand any follow-up care that may be necessary.
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References
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