Medical Surgical Nursing
The nurse in the medical surgical nursing field can work in either the surgical unit or the post-operative unit reserved for those who have had surgical procedures. While the medical surgery nurse is not required by law to have additional training in the surgical field, certification in surgery is recommended by most hospitals to gain employment. The nurse in the medical surgery specialty will be tasked with the care of the patient before, during and after all surgical procedures.
Basic surgical units
The medical surgical nursing specialty in basic surgical units of hospitals generally requires the nurse to have at least a bachelor of science degree in nursing, which is a four-year degree. They may also need additional training that certifies them in the surgical field. This type of department requires the medical surgery nurse to take vital signs and assist patients to prepare for surgery. Additionally, the medical surgical nurse will also take a report of any prior surgical procedures as well as any other medical problems experienced by the patient. During surgery, the nurse will provide assistance as required by the surgeon. After surgery, the patient may spend additional time in the surgical unit unless they are going to be admitted to the hospital. The nurse will then keep track of the patient’s vital signs and watch for any symptoms that show the patient is having a reaction to the medication given during surgery.
Medical surgical units
The medical surgical unit in a hospital provides around-the-clock care to patients who have gone through serious surgical procedures such as organ transplants. In this aspect of the medical surgical nursing field, the nurse is typically only required to hold the title of registered nurse although many hospitals are now recommending certification in the medical surgery field. In this unit, the nurse will be responsible for keeping a close watch on vital signs as well as wound care.
Medical surgical nursing is one of the nursing jobs where the nurse can earn a top salary consisting of an hourly rate of around $30 per hour plus overtime. This is one of the most exciting nursing careers where the nurse does not typically have the same routine every day. Instead, it is always something different and exciting each day.
Popular Schools and Recommended Degrees
Kaplan University
It takes a dedicated educational institution to stand beside you throughout your career. Whether you are already a nurse or have just made the decision to become one, Kaplan University has the people, programs, and professional affiliations to help you pursue your educational and career goals. Kaplan's nursing degree and certificate programs are taught by practicing professionals who are dedicated to helping you prepare for real-world challenges.
Liberty University Online
Liberty University's Department of Nursing is designed to provide individuals with a broad educational background, which builds upon liberal arts, behavioral and social sciences as well as nursing. The curriculum for the nursing program at Liberty University is directly derived from the stated purpose, philosophy, objectives and organizing framework of the Department of Nursing which is based on Patricia Benner?s nursing theory and the nursing process. It provides a framework for practice and a conceptual approach to the nursing curriculum.
CTU Online
As the largest group in the US healthcare workforce, nurses are challenged to make a significant difference in the health outcomes of individuals and populations. The RN to BSN degree completion program at Colorado Technical University is designed to prepare nurses with the knowledge and skills needed to expand their practice options for a variety of clinical and administrative leadership activities and to manage change in an increasingly complex and diverse environment.
