Medical Surgical Nursing Programs

What is Medical Surgical Nursing?
Professional medical surgical nurses are nurses who have had specialized training for surgery. Most of these individuals are already accomplished registered nurses, and are responsible for providing all-around care to patients in hospitals and smaller healthcare facilities. Earlier this particular specialization was an entry-level position for nursing professionals. However with time, this has become a specialization for the best and brightest in the profession. The training covered in this module forms the basis of the care that nurses are expected to provide patients.

What Do Medical-Surgical Nurses Do?
These nurses are primarily responsible for maintaining the physical well-being of the patients both pre- and post op as well as in the operation room. This involves providing them the required treatment in a timely fashion and tending to the psychosocial needs of the patients as well. Therefore, in addition to performing duties such as recording vitals and examining the patients, these nurses are also responsible for informing patients about the surgical procedure they may have to undergo.

How Can I Become A Medical Surgical Nurse?
Before you can become a surgical nurse, you will have to complete your training as a registered nurse. This can be done by obtaining a diploma, an associate's degree in nursing (ADN), or a Bachelors of Science in Nursing. Each of these qualifications involves rigorous training in clinical and theoretical knowledge, and varies in their duration. The professional diploma in medical and surgical, operative and post operative care can be obtained in a year. Upon completion of the academic program, you will be eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). This will allow you to practice your profession legally as an RN within the US. Following this, you can also obtain certification from the Medical-Surgical Nursing Certification Board (MSNCB). Various resources are available to those who wish to prepare for these certification exams, and you can choose one that suits you best. Clearing the examination will qualify you as a medical surgical nurse.

However, this does not mark the end of your training. A continuing education program is necessary for all medical professionals to undergo to both refresh and upgrade practical knowledge of the field. Through these programs, individuals manage to stay updated with the latest developments in healthcare technology and sharpen their skill sets further.

Employment Opportunities And Salaries
The healthcare industry is one of the fastest growing industries in the US, pegged to grow roughly 26% between 2010 and 2020. As populations grow and the healthcare improves the lifespan of individuals, there is greater need for a qualified nursing staff to help bridge the gap. According to different estimates, the average salary expectation for a medical surgical nurse is $49,000. However, this amount can vary greatly based on your own experience, your location, and even your employer. Those who wish to enter this field should possess good communication skills and have a solid grasp of theoretical medical knowledge. They must also be willing to work as part of a medical or surgical team and manage stress effectively at all times. A medical and surgical nurse is likely to have long hours and will have to be on call from time to time.