How to Become a Medical-Surgical Nurse

Become a surgical nurse.

Surgical nurses have become more important in the past several years. In 2003, the federal government passed a law restricting surgical residents from working over 80 hours a week. Once this law passed, surgical nurses were in high demand to provide assistance during surgical procedures. However, to launch this career, you'll need to get the required education and certification.

Instructions

1. Enroll in a nursing program. The first step in becoming a surgical nurse is completing a bachelor's degree in nursing. This program will take four years (full-time study) to complete. Find programs in your area by contacting the state board of nursing.

2. Get clinical experience. When completing your nursing program, request clinical experience in a preoperative environment. This will make you more attractive to potential employers after graduation.

3. Register to take the National Council Licensure Examination. Most hospitals that hire surgical nurses prefer and even require a registered nurse credential. Passing the NCLEX-RN will make you a register nurse. Schedule an exam date by contacting your state board of nursing. As of 2010, the exam fee was $200. To prepare for the test, request study guide materials from your state board of nursing.

4. Apply to surgical nurse positions. These positions are typically in a preoperative setting, which can be found at university hospitals, private hospitals and public hospitals. Your nursing program career services department can also help you find positions.

5. Consider applying to become a registered nurse first assistant (RNFA). After getting four years of preoperative experience, you can apply for this credential. Contact your state board of nursing to schedule an exam date to earn a RNFA credential. During the exam, you'll need to demonstrate competency using instruments and handling tissue correctly.

Tips & Warnings

• Earning a master's degree in nursing will provide more opportunities and higher pay for surgical nurses, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

• Working in a surgical environment can be draining. It requires long hours, which can be stressful.

References

• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Registered Nurses
• NCLEX: Examinations
• North Carolina Center for Nursing: Role of Surgical Nurses