What Is a Medical-Surgical Nurse?
A medical-surgical nurse is a registered nurse who has successfully completed auxiliary training and education in surgical procedures. He traditionally assists surgeons and other nurses in hospital operating rooms. His work environment may be a small, private medical facility or a large, full-service hospital. In addition to assisting in a wide range of surgeries and procedures, a medical-surgical nurse customarily performs preoperative functions as well. He may record the patient’s medical background and review the patient’s medical test results with the surgeon prior to the commencement of the procedure. If special physical preparations or medications are required, the medical-surgical nurse may be assigned to perform these duties. Checking a patient’s vital signs is traditionally part of this nurse’s job.
