Medical-surgical, or med-surg, nurses are some of the most consequential healthcare providers for patients getting ready to undergo surgery or recovering from a surgical procedure. These nurses help in hospitals as well as in outpatient settings, offering a high level of patient care.
Med-surg nurses are registered nurses (RNs) and, as such, can expect significant job security until at least 2032. In fact, RN job growth is 6%, which is faster than average. If you’re considering becoming a med-surg nurse, it can help to have a clear idea of what the job entails and what steps you need to take to become one.
What is a med-surg nurse?
A med-surg nurse is an RN who offers care to people who are getting ready to have surgery or who are recovering from a surgical procedure. An average shift can include tasks such as:
- Performing wound care
- Administering medications
- Checking vitals
- Assessing patient condition
- Running blood tests
- Updating records
- Managing equipment, like IV lines and catheters
Med-surg nurses work with physicians and other healthcare providers to offer patients the support they require. They may also provide education to the family members of their patients.
A med-surg nurse needs to be able to work under pressure because patients can have emergencies that require quick action and a calm demeanor. Another quality med-surg nurses must possess is excellent communication skills. They work as part of a team, so communicating clearly and efficiently can prevent confusion and even medical errors.
Compassion is another vital quality. Patients will be dealing with worry and fear as they prepare for or recover from surgery, and that means being able to offer all manner of support.
How to become a med-surg nurse
To become a medical-surgical nurse, there are a few crucial steps you need to follow.
Complete a nursing program
The first step is to graduate from an accredited nursing program. You can choose to pursue an associate degree in nursing, which takes about two years, or a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN), which takes about four years.
If you already have an associate’s degree, you can also choose an accelerated nursing program and get a BSN in one or two years. You can choose a specialization with this type of accelerated program.
Pass the NCLEX-RN
Once you complete your nursing degree, you need to pass the NCLEX, which is a national test that ensures nurses have the knowledge and clinical skills they need to provide quality patient care. The NCLEX-RN is specifically designed for those who want to be licensed as an RN. The test has four main categories and eight subcategories.
You must apply to the National Council of State Boards of Nursing to take the exam and provide all of the required documents that show you completed your degree. Once your application is accepted, you will be allowed to register for an exam session. If you don’t pass, you can retake the NCLEX-RN.
Obtain your RN license
You’ll need to check the licensing board in the state in which you will work to understand the requirements for obtaining your license. If you’re planning on working as a travel nurse, one option you have is to get a compact license, which lets you work in 42 jurisdictions throughout the country without having to individually apply to each one.
Start working
Most RNs can begin working in med-surg units without prior experience. Many of these positions are entry-level. You may be assigned an internship with an experienced RN for on-the-job learning.
Consider certifications
You don’t need certification to become a med-surg nurse, but it can still be a good idea to opt for it. You can get the Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse or the Medical-Surgical Nursing Certification.
These certifications can make you more attractive to potential employers because they demonstrate additional knowledge and skills, as well as dedication to continuing your education.
To apply to take the exams for these certifications, you will need an active RN license, at least two years of working as a full-time RN, and at least 2,000 hours of working as a med-surg nurse.
Finding the right med-surg nursing job
Once you’ve completed all the necessary training, it can be daunting to start your search for a job. How can you find the position that best matches your skills, experience, and goals? That’s where Prolink can help.
We are a leading staffing agency with offices throughout the country and contacts with some of the most exciting healthcare employers. Whether you want local or travel nursing jobs, our team of expert recruiters can guide you.
As a staffing agency, we are proud to offer our employees benefits like 401k enrollment, comprehensive medical care, and paid sick leave. Click below to connect with a recruiter and start your job search today.
