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When I was a student nurse, the operating room seemed like an intimidating place. I always imagined the surgeon as the main star, performing life-saving procedures while the rest of the team played supporting roles. But when I started working as a surgical nurse, I quickly realized just how vital my role was in ensuring everything ran smoothly in the operating room. Without a well-prepared and focused team—especially the surgical nurses—a successful surgery would be nearly impossible.
If you’re a student nurse and you’re curious about what it’s really like to be a surgical nurse, this post is for you. I’ll take you through my personal journey, from the early stages of preparing the operating room to providing care after surgery. By the end, you’ll have a clearer picture of the vital role surgical nurses play and what you can expect if you choose to pursue this rewarding path.
The Day Begins with Preparation
As a surgical nurse, my day starts well before the surgeon scrubs in. When I first started, I was surprised by how much work goes into preparing for a surgery before it even begins. Every morning, I review the day’s schedule, check the specific procedures planned, and make sure that the operating room is fully equipped. It’s not just about grabbing tools and laying them out—everything must be organized and sterile, ensuring there are no delays or complications once the surgery starts.
The first thing I learned as a surgical nurse is that preparation is everything. One of my mentors once told me, “A well-prepared surgical nurse makes the surgeon’s job easier, and the patient safer.” This advice stuck with me throughout my career. Every surgery is different, so making sure you have all the right instruments for the specific procedure is crucial.
When I was a student nurse, I thought this part of the job might be a bit boring, but once I started working, I realized how critical it is. Every instrument must be accounted for, sterilized, and placed where it’s easily accessible. If something is missing or not properly sterilized, it can cause delays, stress, and even put the patient at risk.
Understanding the Patient’s Needs
One aspect of being a surgical nurse that surprised me was the amount of time spent with the patient before the surgery. As a student nurse, I didn’t realize how much emotional support surgical nurses provide. Before any surgery starts, I always meet the patient, explain the process, and help them feel more at ease.
For many patients, surgery is a frightening experience. They might be nervous or anxious, and it’s our job as surgical nurses to provide comfort. I’ve found that a few reassuring words or a simple explanation of what to expect can go a long way in calming a patient’s nerves. As nurses, we are often the last people they see before they go under anesthesia, so it’s essential to provide that human touch.
During my time as a student nurse, I didn’t fully grasp how much empathy and communication are involved in the role of a surgical nurse. It’s not just about preparing equipment and assisting in surgery; it’s about making sure the patient feels safe and cared for during one of the most vulnerable moments of their life.
Assisting During Surgery: Learning to Stay Calm and Focused
Once the surgery begins, the role of the surgical nurse becomes even more critical. Assisting the surgeon during an operation was one of the most nerve-wracking parts of my job when I first started. I remember feeling a mix of excitement and anxiety the first time I assisted in surgery. But over time, I learned to stay calm and focused, and it became second nature.
One of the most important responsibilities of a surgical nurse is passing instruments to the surgeon during the procedure. At first, this felt like an overwhelming task, but with practice, you start to anticipate what the surgeon will need next. It’s not just about passing the right instrument—you have to pass it correctly, so it’s ready to use immediately. Timing and precision are everything.
I’ve learned to stay fully present in the moment, keeping a close eye on the surgery while also monitoring the patient’s condition. As a surgical nurse, it’s my job to maintain sterility, ensure the surgeon has everything they need, and be prepared for any unexpected developments. The adrenaline rush is real, but so is the sense of responsibility.
Patient Safety Comes First
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned in my time as a surgical nurse is that patient safety is always the top priority. While the surgeon is focused on the procedure, I am constantly monitoring the patient’s vital signs, making sure everything is stable. If something seems off, it’s my responsibility to alert the surgeon immediately.
Patient safety doesn’t just happen during the surgery—it begins with preparation. Making sure the instruments are sterilized, keeping the operating room sterile, and following strict safety protocols are all part of keeping the patient safe. Even the smallest mistake can have serious consequences, which is why attention to detail is crucial in this role.
As a student nurse, I didn’t fully appreciate just how strict the sterility rules were. But once you start working in the OR, you quickly realize how vital it is to follow these procedures without fail. Even something as simple as touching a non-sterile surface can contaminate the entire field, putting the patient at risk for infection.
Post-Operative Care: The Journey Isn’t Over
After the surgery is finished, the role of the surgical nurse doesn’t end. One of the most rewarding parts of the job is helping patients as they wake up and begin their recovery. In the recovery room, I closely monitor the patient’s vital signs, make sure they are comfortable, and manage their pain. I also assist with any immediate post-operative care, such as changing dressings or administering medications.
One of the most satisfying parts of being a surgical nurse is seeing the patient wake up, safe and on the path to healing. You know that your work has played a crucial role in their recovery, and there’s no better feeling than seeing them stabilized and ready to begin the next phase of their journey.
As a surgical nurse, you also have the responsibility of educating the patient and their family about what to expect after surgery. This includes explaining how to care for their surgical site, what signs of complications to look out for, and how to manage their pain at home. Being able to provide this support helps ease the patient’s anxiety and empowers them to take charge of their own recovery.
Lifelong Learning: The Path to Mastery
One thing I wish I had known as a student nurse is that the learning never stops. The healthcare field is constantly evolving, and as a surgical nurse, it’s essential to stay up to date with new techniques, tools, and procedures. This means continuing education is a big part of the job.
When I first started, I thought that once I completed my training, I would be done with studying. But I quickly realized that being a surgical nurse means committing to lifelong learning. From attending workshops to completing additional certifications, staying informed about the latest advancements in surgery is crucial for providing the best patient care possible.
It’s an exciting part of the job, though! Every new skill you learn makes you a better nurse and allows you to provide more advanced care for your patients.
What I Wish I Knew as a Student Nurse
Looking back, there are a few things I wish I had known as a student nurse about the role of a surgical nurse. First, don’t be afraid to ask questions. The operating room can feel intimidating at first, but everyone is there to help you learn. I made mistakes when I was just starting out, but every mistake was an opportunity to learn and improve.
Second, always pay attention to the details. Being a surgical nurse requires a keen eye for detail—whether it’s preparing instruments, monitoring the patient, or maintaining sterility. The little things really do matter, and focusing on them can make a huge difference in the success of a surgery.
Finally, remember why you’re there. It’s easy to get caught up in the technical side of surgery, but at the end of the day, your role as a surgical nurse is about caring for people. The patient on the table is a person who is trusting you with their life, and they need your compassion and expertise to get through one of the most stressful times of their life.
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Being a surgical nurse is one of the most challenging and rewarding roles in healthcare. It’s fast-paced, requires precision, and calls for both technical skill and deep empathy for the patient. If you’re a student nurse considering a career in the operating room, I hope this glimpse into my experience has given you some insight into what you can expect. It’s not always easy, but the rewards—knowing you’ve made a real difference in someone’s life—make every challenging moment worth it.
If you choose this path, you’ll have the opportunity to witness incredible medical feats, provide life-saving care, and be part of a team that makes surgery possible. It’s a career full of growth, learning, and most importantly, helping others heal.
