How to Become a Surgical Nurse Practitioner
In 2003, the federal government passed a law that forbids surgical residents from working more than 80 hours per week. After this law passed, surgical nurse practitioners became more important in providing technical assistance during surgery. However, before launching this career, you'll need to complete a bachelor's and master's degree in nursing and get preoperative nursing experience.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Complete a bachelor's degree in nursing. Completing this degree will take four years (full-time) to complete. To find accredited nursing programs in your area, contact your state board of nursing.
-
2
Take the NCLEX-RN Exam. Passing this national exam will qualify you as a registered nurse. The fee to take the NCLEX-RN exam was $200, as of 2010. Contact your state board of nursing to register for the exam. Ask the board for study guide materials to help you focus your study efforts.
-
-
3
Get preoperative nursing experience. Preoperative nursing positions can be found at community, private and university hospitals, and provide experience working in a surgical environment. Your college's career services department can help you identify these jobs
-
4
Contact your state to apply for a Registered Nurse First Assistant (RNFA) credential. After getting two to four years of work experience (this varies by state), contact your state board of nursing to seek RNFA certification. This usually involves taking a state administered exam that focuses on preoperative procedures, handling tissue and using instruments correctly.
-
5
Complete a master's degree program in nursing. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nurse practitioners must complete a master's in nursing. Find master's degree programs in your community through the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).
-
6
Get certified as a nurse practitioner. After completing you master's program, apply for certification with the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP). The exam testing fee was $315 as of 2010, according to the AANP. Request study guides to help focus your study preparation from the AANP. After you've earned certification, apply for surgical nurse practitioner jobs with local hospitals.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Seek clinical experience in a hospital during your undergraduate study. Applying for clinical internships that put you close to surgery will help you determine if this career is right for you.
Working in a surgical environment can be emotionally draining and stressful, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
References
- Photo Credit ready for surgery! image by Laser from Fotolia.com
