Become a Registered Nurse First Assistant (RNFA)
Become a Registered Nurse First Assistant (RNFA): Pursuing a Career as a Surgical Assistant Nurse (SAN)
Surgical Assistant Nurses (SAN) find their careers rewarding, serving as key team members alongside surgeons. They play vital roles in various surgical settings, from complex neurosurgeries to urgent care situations. SANs are critical in implementing medical procedures that enhance patient recovery and well-being. In this guide, we will explore:
- What is the role of a Surgical Assistant Nurse?
- Steps to becoming a SAN
- Typical workplaces for SANs
- Employment and salary prospects for SANs
- Commonly Asked Questions (CAQs)
Role of a SAN
The main duty of a surgical assistant nurse is to observe patient vital statistics during operations. In case of emergencies, the SAN assists the surgeon and team to stabilize the patient. Common SAN tasks include:
- Preparing patients for operations
- Providing pre and post-operative care
- Managing medication administration
- Organizing surgical instruments and supplies
- Performing surgical methods like bleeding control, draping, tissue handling, and stitching
- Implementing CPR or emergency interventions when required
- Educating patients and families on post-surgery care
- Conducting follow-up assessments
These are just some responsibilities of SANs. Additional duties may vary by employer, so it is vital to understand all expectations before accepting a SAN position.
Steps to Becoming a SAN
Start by completing an accredited nursing program, choosing between an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Employers often prefer BSN graduates due to their comprehensive training. Afterward, passing the NCLEX-RN exam is necessary to receive RN licensure. To become a certified SAN, two more steps are required:
- A minimum of two years in perioperative nursing
- Certified Nurse Operating Room (CNOR) credentials from the Association of perioperative Registered Nurses (AORN)
Without CNOR credentials, you cannot work as a SAN.
Typical Workplaces for SANs
Hospitals and outpatient surgery centers are typical environments for surgical assistant nurses. They may also work in diverse healthcare settings such as maternity wards, rural hospitals, dental practices, cosmetic surgery clinics, and eye care centers.
Employment and Salary Prospects for SANs
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) provides general salary data for all registered nurses, with an average salary of $82,750. SANs typically earn about $90,631 according to recent data from industry sources like Nurse.org. Some regions offer higher salaries for SANs, especially in hospitals and facilities with frequent surgeries. Top-paying states for SANs include California, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Oregon, and Washington, D.C. SAN careers come with benefits like health coverage, retirement savings plans, and potential tuition assistance.
Commonly Asked Questions (CAQs)
What is a Surgical Assistant Nurse (SAN)?
A SAN's primary role is to oversee patient vital signs during surgeries.
What tasks do SANs perform?
- Patient preparation for surgery
- Pre and post-surgery care
- Medication management
- Surgical tool organization
- Emergency procedure practices
- Patient and family education on post-operative care
- Post-surgery evaluations
What is the average SAN salary?
The median income for SANs is approximately $90,631.
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