Plastic surgery nurses care for patients before, during, and after cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries. They explain procedures, assist surgeons, educate patients, and may advance to supervisory roles or pursue further education. Requirements include a nursing degree and certification.
A plastic surgery nurse is a healthcare professional who cares for patients before, during, and after cosmetic and reconstructive surgical procedures. He or she prepares operating rooms and actively assists surgeons during procedures. A registered nurse also provides consultation services to help people determine whether or not to undergo surgery. Most plastic surgery nurses work in inpatient and outpatient surgical centers dedicated to the specialty, although some professionals are employed in general hospitals, occupational therapy clinics and private practices.
People undergo plastic surgery for a variety of reasons, and it is common for a plastic surgery nurse to encounter many different conditions and patient types. Nurses participate in elective procedures such as face lifts and breast augmentation, as well as reconstructive surgeries to correct congenital and acquired deformities. Before a patient undergoes surgery, a nurse explains the procedure and provides information about what to expect. He or she stocks the operating room, helps the patient get into position, and sterilizes the target area of the body.
It is important for the nurse to understand anatomy, physiology, medical terminology and common surgical techniques to ensure that the patient is treated appropriately during a procedure. He or she works alongside the surgeon, ensuring the patient remains stable. After surgery, the nurse cleans and dresses the scars, helps the patient dress, and monitors his condition in a recovery room.
Patient and family education is an important part of a plastic surgery nurse’s work. After a successful procedure, the nurse explains home care techniques such as changing bandages, freezing swollen body parts, and taking medications. He or she reminds patients to attend follow-up visits to ensure that the procedures were successful. Additionally, a plastic surgery nurse may be responsible for helping patients understand their medical bills and organize payment options.
A person who wants to become a plastic surgery nurse will typically need to possess an associate’s or bachelor’s degree and pass a nurse exam. Most specialists start their careers in other healthcare settings, such as emergency rooms and general hospitals, to gain hands-on experience. Some plastic surgeons prefer to hire nurses with operating room experience and volunteer credentials from respected certifying boards in reconstructive surgery.
With experience and continuing education, a plastic surgery nurse can take advantage of many opportunities for advancement. Some professionals become supervisors in inpatient and outpatient clinics, directing other nurses and various staff. Many nurses earn master’s degrees to become professional nurses, granting them additional responsibilities and opportunities to conduct research. Others attend medical school part-time or full-time to start on the path to becoming a surgeon.
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