The operating room is a place filled to the brim with great concentration, quick reactions and the awareness that the movement of every person present there is important. In this environment, one of the most important pillars of the medical team is the surgical nurse. This is a person who ensures the patient's safety at every stage of treatment and is responsible for many elements of the operation that the patient will never see, but which determine the success of the entire process. 

What is surgical nursing?

Surgical nursing includes care of a patient being prepared for surgery, support during the procedure and ensuring the proper course of the entire recovery process. A surgical nurse often accompanies the patient from the moment of admission to the ward, trying to minimize fear and anxiety and prepare him for all medical procedures. During surgery, he or she forms part of the team, ensuring sterility, safety procedures and the readiness of all instruments. Her main task is to assist the doctor. After the procedure, he constantly monitors your health, controls pain, cares for the wound and reacts immediately if any disturbing symptoms appear.

This is a specialization for people who like challenges and are not afraid to act decisively. What counts in the operating theater is responsibility, ability to predict, precision and conscious organization of work. Each stage of the procedure requires concentration, which is why a surgical nurse must also demonstrate high mental resilience.

What can a nurse do after surgical specialization?

Completing specialization opens the way to performing more advanced activities. The surgical nurse takes responsibility for comprehensive perioperative care, plans care activities and assesses the patient's condition before the doctor decides on the procedure. During surgery, he supports the surgeon and anesthesiologist, often being their "right hand". 

With the completion of specialization comes greater responsibility, but also the ability to decide on one's own development direction. The nurse may be involved in creating procedures, conducting training and performing coordinating functions in the department. For many specialists, it is also a path to scientific work or positions related to the organization of medical care.

Such a wide range of responsibilities makes a surgical nurse one of the key people in the entire surgical treatment process, her knowledge and vigilance have a real impact on patients' safety and the quality of their recovery.

How to become a surgical nurse?

The first step is nursing studies leading to obtaining the right to practice the profession. After gaining professional experience, a nurse can start specializing in surgery. The training covers theory and practice, thanks to which participants learn both the principles of asepsis and safety, as well as the use of specialized equipment used in surgery. Practical classes take place in operating theaters, which allows you to become directly acquainted with the dynamic work environment and get to know the structure of the surgical team from the inside.

After completing the training, the nurse takes the state exam, which confirms her qualifications. Obtaining the title of surgical nursing specialist is a ticket to work in a position with greater autonomy and responsibility.

Professional medical clothing for a surgical nurse

Working in surgery means a fast pace, constant readiness and often long-hour shifts. Appropriate medical clothing is therefore of great importance - comfort and freedom of movement are essential when a nurse must be fully focused. The outfit should be made of materials that allow the skin to breathe and at the same time withstand frequent washing and disinfection. The most common items of clothing for surgical nurses are medical scrubs, that is medical kit consisting of a sweatshirt and women's medical trousers. The Medka store offers a wide selection of styles and colors so that every nurse can find the most comfortable one medical uniform, which will keep up with her dynamic work pace.

Aesthetics also matter. Patients perceive the nurse as a person who takes care of them, accompanying them throughout the treatment process. A neat appearance builds a sense of security and trust. A comfortable and durable uniform is not just an element of clothing, but a work tool that supports the specialist in every move and helps her carry out her tasks at the highest level.

Summary

Surgical specialization is an ideal path for nurses who want to develop their competences, work close to modern technology and have a real impact on patients' health. Every stage of care, from preparation for surgery to recovery, depends largely on them. It's a huge responsibility, but also satisfaction; few professions allow you to see the effects of your work so quickly.

Laura Sulewska