How to Become a Surgical Nurse – Salary & Requirements for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

The need for nurses will significantly surge if appropriate measures are not implemented to address the diminishing workforce. As reported by Bailey (2022), experts have estimated a shortage of 200,000 to 450,000 nurses by 2025, resulting in a 10 to 20% deficit in the nursing sector in the US. This discrepancy arises from higher demand for healthcare services exceeding the available supply of nurses, highlighting the need for individuals to pursue a degree in nursing.

In addition, the healthcare industry is experiencing an increasing need for specialized nursing roles, including the highly sought-after surgical nurse position. At Research.com, our team has diligently compiled vital information on this topic. This article aims to delve into the importance of surgical nursing, the career opportunities it offers, the necessary skills, and a detailed guide on pursuing a career as a surgical nurse.

How to Become a Surgical Nurse Table of Contents

Why pursue a career in Surgical Nursing?
Surgical Nursing Career Outlook
Required Skills for a Surgical Nurse
How to Start Your Career in Surgical Nursing
How can I advance my career in Surgical Nursing?
How can surgical nurses explore interdisciplinary career growth opportunities?
What are the key challenges faced by surgical nurses in their careers?
Alternative Career Options for a Surgical Nurse
What educational opportunities are available for surgical nurses to advance their careers?
How can professional mentorship and networking accelerate surgical nursing careers?
What are the educational pathways for advancing surgical nursing careers?
How can surgical nurses integrate nutritional strategies into patient care?
How can bridging education programs enhance career progression in surgical nursing?
How can surgical nurses manage work stress and prevent burnout?
Can online advanced degree programs enhance your surgical nursing expertise?
Can affordable online LPN programs pave the way for a successful surgical nursing career?
What is the typical work schedule for surgical nurses?

Why pursue a career in Surgical Nursing?

Based on the latest statistics, the number of surgical nurses in the workforce is estimated to be approximately 4.3 million. Moreover, the data indicates a growth rate of 4.2% in this profession (Data USA, 2021).

Surgical nursing, in comparison to being a physician assistant (PA), involves working closely with surgical teams to provide comprehensive care to patients before, during, and after surgery. Nurse vs. PA roles differ in their approach to patient care within the surgical setting.

A surgical nurse plays a vital role in ensuring patient well-being by preparing them for surgery, assisting during procedures, and providing post-operative care. They also educate patients and their families, maintain sterile environments, and monitor vital signs. Meanwhile, a PA works collaboratively with physicians to diagnose and treat patients across various medical specialties.

The surgical nursing profession offers personal and social fulfillment through direct contributions to patient health and recovery and the opportunity to provide emotional support to patients and their families during challenging times.

Surgical Nursing Career Outlook

The salary and job outlook for surgical nurses is generally favorable. While salaries can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and qualifications, surgical nurses tend to earn competitive wages.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nurses, which include surgical nurses, had a median annual wage of $77,600 as of May 2021. The job outlook for registered nurses, including those specializing in surgical nursing, is also promising, with a projected growth rate of 6% from 2021 to 2031, which is faster than the average for all occupations (BLS, 2022).

In terms of market demand, surgical nursing continues to be in high demand globally. The need for skilled surgical nurses is driven by the rising number of surgical procedures, advancements in medical technology, and the overall growth of the healthcare sector.

Additionally, the employment forecast for surgical nurses is positive, with opportunities available in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, ambulatory surgical centers, and specialty clinics.

Required Skills for a Surgical Nurse

Becoming a surgical nurse requires a unique set of skills encompassing technical expertise and general aptitudes crucial for success in the field. In addition to possessing the necessary medical knowledge, surgical nurses must also possess a range of technical and general skills to provide optimal care to patients undergoing surgical procedures.

Essential Skills for a Surgical Nurse

The most essential skill frequently found on surgical nurses’ resumes is patient care, with approximately 31.3% of surgical nurses possessing this skill. The second most essential skill is basic life support (BLS), which is listed on 15.3% of surgical nurse resumes. Acute care ranks as the third most common skill, appearing on 6.7% of resumes in this field (Zippia, 2022).

Patient Care. Surgical nurses must give unbiased care to patients, conduct efficient assessments, intervene with post-operative patients, and administer primary nursing care with accurate charting.
Basic Life Support (BLS). Surgical nurses must assist in developing BLS program schedules and employee training. They must acquire BLS certifications and have experience with different computer documentation systems.
Acute Care. Surgical nurses must provide immediate care to patients recuperating from severe injuries or urgent medical conditions. Acute care includes emergency, short-term stabilization, pre-hospital, and trauma care.

General Skills for a Surgical Nurse

Communication skills, compassion, and attention to detail are three prevalent soft skills required for surgical nurses.

Effective Communication. Surgical nurses should have strong verbal and written communication skills to convey information accurately, provide instructions, and offer emotional support.
Emotional Stability and Compassion. These help surgical nurses provide comfort and support to patients, promoting a positive patient experience and facilitating healing.
Attention to Detail. Surgical nurses must be meticulous in following protocols, accurately documenting patient information, and observing any changes in the patient’s condition.

How to Start Your Career in Surgical Nursing

Starting a career in surgical nursing requires completing the necessary educational requirements, which can be achieved through online nursing degrees.

An associate’s degree can open doors to roles such as surgical nurse assistants and surgical technologists. In contrast, a bachelor’s degree can lead to positions as registered nurses in the operating room or perioperative nurses. It is important to note that, unlike other professions in the healthcare field, surgical nursing requires at least a two-year higher education degree as opposed to having a high school diploma and/or GED, which are enough qualifications to become dialysis technician or similar professions.

Although a surgical nursing certificate is beneficial, employers often prefer additional education. By obtaining the appropriate degree, you can set a strong foundation for a rewarding and fulfilling career in surgical nursing. But in case you decide to become a surgeon or physician and wondering what to major in to be a surgeon, you will need to have a bachelor’s degree in pre-medicine, biology, or other related fields and complete medical school.

What can I do with an Associate’s Degree in Surgical Nursing?

Surgical Assistant

As a surgical nurse assistant, you will support the surgical team by preparing operating rooms, sterilizing equipment, and ensuring a clean environment. Additionally, you may assist with patient transportation, recordkeeping, and basic patient care tasks.

Median salary: $48,320

Surgical Technologist

In this role, you will work directly alongside surgeons, preparing operating rooms, sterilizing instruments, and assisting during surgical procedures. Surgical technologists also ensure that all necessary equipment functions correctly. They collaborate closely with the surgical team.

Median salary: $48,530

What can I do with a Bachelor’s Degree in Surgical Nursing?

Perioperative Nurse

Perioperative nurses are responsible for coordinating patient care throughout the entire surgical process. They assess patients, develop care plans, and provide education to patients and their families. Perioperative nurses work closely with the surgical team and ensure a safe and efficient surgical experience.

Median salary: $144,299

Operating Room Nurse

With a bachelor’s degree in surgical nursing, you can pursue a career as a registered nurse specializing in the operating room. As an operating room nurse, also called a scrub nurse, you will provide direct patient care before, during, and after surgeries. Responsibilities include patient assessment, administering medications, monitoring vital signs, and collaborating with the surgical team.

Median salary: $153,729

Can you get a Surgical Nursing job with just a certificate?

While a certificate in surgical nursing can provide specialized training and enhance your skill set, it may not be sufficient for obtaining a surgical nursing job independently. Most employers prefer candidates with at least an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in surgical nursing, as these programs offer comprehensive education and clinical experience.

However, a certificate can be a valuable addition to your resume and may qualify you for certain entry-level positions within the field. Pursuing further education beyond a certificate is recommended to increase your job prospects and advancement opportunities in surgical nursing.

How can I advance my career in Surgical Nursing?

Advancing your career in surgical nursing requires pursuing higher levels of education, such as a master’s or doctorate degree, and obtaining relevant certifications. Getting a master’s or short doctorate degree online is also an option.

With a master’s degree, you can explore roles as a nurse practitioner or clinical nurse specialist, while a doctorate can lead to positions as a nurse educator or researcher. Alternatively, if you decide to explore a different path outside of the nursing field, obtaining a master’s degree is a necessary step in how to become an occupational therapist and other allied health professions.

Additionally, obtaining certifications in perioperative nursing, medical-surgical nursing, or advanced life support can further enhance your skills and career opportunities in surgical nursing.

What can I do with a Master’s in Surgical Nursing?

Nurse Practitioner in Surgical Specialties

With a master’s degree in surgical nursing, you can pursue a career as a nurse practitioner specializing in surgical specialties. As a nurse practitioner, you will provide comprehensive patient care, including conducting physical exams, diagnosing conditions, ordering tests, prescribing medications, and managing patient treatment plans. Nurse practitioners in surgical specialties often work closely with surgeons and other healthcare professionals.

Median salary: $123,780

Clinical Nurse Specialist in Surgical Nursing

Clinical nurse specialists are advanced practice registered nurses specializing in a specific healthcare area. With a master’s degree in surgical nursing, you can become a clinical nurse specialist in surgical nursing. In this role, you will provide expert guidance and support to nurses, patients, and other healthcare professionals. Clinical nurse specialists often contribute to surgical nursing research, education, and policy development.

Median salary: $115,923

What kind of job can I get with a Doctorate in Surgical Nursing?

Researcher in Surgical Nursing

With a Ph.D. in Surgical Nursing, you can pursue a career as a researcher in the field. Surgical nursing researchers contribute to advancing knowledge through scientific investigations, data analysis, and publication of research findings. They may work in academic institutions and research organizations to explore new surgical techniques and improve surgical practices.

Median salary: $90,258

Nurse Educator in Surgical Nursing

A Doctorate in Surgical Nursing can qualify you for a position as a nurse educator in surgical nursing. In this role, you will teach and mentor aspiring nurses in academic or clinical settings. Nurse educators play a crucial role in shaping the future of surgical nursing by providing instruction, developing curricula, and conducting research.

Median salary: $84,180

Which certification is best for Surgical Nursing?

While there may not be a specific certification exclusively for surgical nursing, there are certifications that can enhance your skills and advance your career in this field. Some notable certifications include:

Certified Perioperative Nurse (CNOR). This certification is offered by the Competency and Credentialing Institute, or CCI, and validates perioperative nurses, specifically their specialized knowledge and skills.
Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse (CMSRN). This certification, offered by the Medical-Surgical Nursing Certification Board, or MSNCB, demonstrates expertise in medical-surgical nursing, which is closely related to surgical nursing.
Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) Certification. This certification focuses on emergency interventions and resuscitation techniques, which are essential skills for surgical nurses working in critical care settings.

Obtaining these certifications can provide opportunities for professional growth, increase job prospects, and enhance your credibility as a surgical nurse. Additionally, pursuing advanced certifications in areas such as leadership, research, or education can further advance your career in surgical nursing.

How can surgical nurses explore interdisciplinary career growth opportunities?

Surgical nurses looking to expand their professional horizons may benefit from exploring interdisciplinary career growth avenues. One such opportunity lies in the integration of behavioral health knowledge into surgical care or transitioning into fields like psychiatric mental health nursing. For example, surgical nurses with a post-master's qualification may find psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) roles particularly rewarding, combining their clinical expertise with mental health care. Programs such as the shortest post master's PMHNP online programs provide an efficient pathway for obtaining these credentials, enabling specialization in mental health without extensive time away from current work or responsibilities.

By gaining expertise in areas outside of traditional surgical care, these nurses can contribute more holistically to patient wellness, especially as mental health awareness grows across healthcare sectors. Additionally, interdisciplinary skills in mental health open doors to new leadership roles, enhanced patient communication, and collaboration within multidisciplinary teams. This approach not only diversifies career pathways but also positions surgical nurses as versatile professionals ready to address evolving patient needs.

What are the key challenges faced by surgical nurses in their careers?

Recognizing these challenges can help aspiring surgical nurses prepare for the realities of the field and explore resources to build resilience, maintain work-life balance, and achieve long-term success in their careers.

High-Stress Environment: Surgical nurses often work in fast-paced, high-pressure settings where they must remain calm and focused during complex procedures, emergencies, or unexpected patient reactions.
Long Hours and Physical Demands: The role frequently requires extended shifts, especially in critical situations, and involves physical demands like standing for prolonged periods, lifting patients, and handling heavy equipment.
Emotional Strain: Witnessing trauma and critical patient outcomes can take an emotional toll on surgical nurses, who must manage their mental health to maintain resilience and avoid burnout.
Risk of Exposure to Infections: Surgical nurses are exposed to potential infections and biohazards, making strict adherence to safety protocols essential to minimize health risks.
Continuous Learning Requirements: Advancements in medical technology and procedures mean that surgical nurses must regularly update their skills and knowledge, often through ongoing training and certifications.

Alternative Career Options for a Surgical Nurse

While pursuing a career as a surgical nurse can be fulfilling and rewarding, exploring alternative career paths where your skills and knowledge in this field can be applied is essential.

What else can a Surgical Nurse Do?

Quality Improvement Specialist

Quality improvement specialists focus on evaluating and enhancing the quality of patient care within healthcare organizations. With your background as a surgical nurse, you possess firsthand knowledge of surgical procedures, patient safety protocols, and the intricacies of delivering optimal care in the operating room.

In this role, you will analyze data, identify areas for improvement, and develop strategies to enhance patient outcomes and organizational performance. Your expertise as a surgical nurse equips you with a unique perspective to evaluate and implement quality improvement initiatives in surgical settings, making this alternative career a valuable contribution to healthcare delivery.

Medical Device Sales Representative

As a medical device sales representative, your role will involve promoting and selling surgical equipment, instruments, and devices to different healthcare facility types and professionals. With your background as a surgical nurse, you possess a deep understanding of the products, their applications, and the needs of surgeons and operating room staff.

Your expertise and firsthand experience in surgical settings can contribute to effective communication with potential customers and provide valuable insights during product demonstrations. This alternative career allows you to combine your clinical knowledge with sales and business skills to drive the adoption of innovative surgical technologies.

Job Title

Median Annual Wage

Quality Improvement Specialist

$83,186

Medical Device Sales Representative

$120,846

What educational opportunities are available for surgical nurses to advance their careers?

Surgical nurses can advance their careers by pursuing higher education, such as online accelerated BSN programs, master's degrees, or doctorate degrees in nursing. These programs can provide specialized training and education in areas such as perioperative nursing, medical-surgical nursing, or nursing education. Additionally, certifications in specialized areas, such as CNOR or CMSRN, can also enhance career prospects and provide opportunities for advancement. By pursuing higher education and certifications, surgical nurses can unlock opportunities for leadership roles, specialized practice, and higher salaries.

How can professional mentorship and networking accelerate surgical nursing careers?

A robust mentorship framework offers surgical nurses firsthand insights into clinical decision-making and administrative challenges, empowering them to adapt rapidly in high-pressure environments. Connecting with experienced professionals facilitates targeted skill development and promotes the exchange of innovative practices. Engaging with industry associations and academic partners also broadens access to specialized short-term programs, such as the 6-month LPN to RN program online, which are designed to expedite career transitions and enhance technical proficiency.

What are the educational pathways for advancing surgical nursing careers?

Advancing a career in surgical nursing requires a clear understanding of the educational steps needed to meet the growing demands of the profession. With the nursing field evolving to address complex healthcare needs, specialized education plays a pivotal role in ensuring surgical nurses are well-prepared for advanced roles.

Associate’s and Bachelor’s Degrees: An Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) provides foundational knowledge for entry-level roles, such as surgical nurse assistant or surgical technologist. A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is often preferred by employers for roles such as perioperative nurse or operating room nurse. BSN programs delve deeper into patient care, leadership, and critical thinking.
Master’s Degree in Surgical Nursing: Pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) allows surgical nurses to specialize in surgical nursing or related fields, such as nurse practitioner roles in surgical specialties. For those interested, understanding the specific nurse practitioner requirements is essential to transitioning into advanced clinical roles.
Doctorate Degrees: A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) or Ph.D. in Nursing focuses on advanced clinical practice, research, or education. These degrees qualify nurses for leadership positions, such as nurse educator or researcher, where they can influence policies and practices.
Certifications: Obtaining certifications like Certified Perioperative Nurse (CNOR), Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse (CMSRN), and Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) is vital for validating expertise in surgical nursing. These credentials also enhance employability and career advancement prospects.
Continuing Education and Online Learning: Online degree programs and professional development courses offer flexibility for working nurses. These programs make it easier to balance career advancement with personal commitments, enabling surgical nurses to gain advanced knowledge without pausing their careers.

By following these pathways, surgical nurses can unlock opportunities for higher salaries, leadership roles, and specialized practice. As the healthcare industry continues to advance, staying informed about educational trends and requirements ensures that surgical nurses remain competitive and effective in their roles.

Can online advanced degree programs enhance your surgical nursing expertise?

Online advanced degree programs offer accelerated learning paths, updated clinical methodologies, and research-driven curricula designed to meet evolving healthcare demands. These programs deliver flexible scheduling and interactive coursework that allow surgical nurses to integrate advanced practice skills with their ongoing professional responsibilities. Enrollment in such programs can open doors to leadership roles and niche clinical specialization without compromising current work commitments.

Exploring options like affordable MSN to DNP programs provides access to evidence-based strategies, dynamic peer collaboration, and real-time exposure to industry innovations that further elevate clinical and administrative competencies.

Can affordable online LPN programs pave the way for a successful surgical nursing career?

Affordable online programs can serve as an accessible entry point to nursing by providing foundational clinical training and practical skills. Even though roles in surgical nursing typically require advanced qualifications, beginning with a practical nursing program can expedite early career progress and build essential competencies. Leveraging cost-effective options such as cheapest online LPN programs allows aspiring nurses to minimize financial barriers while acquiring critical knowledge that supports future specialization in surgical nursing.

What is the typical work schedule for surgical nurses?

Surgical nurses work in fast-paced environments that demand adaptability and attention to detail. Their schedules can be demanding, often requiring flexibility to accommodate patient needs and surgical procedures. Programs that can prepare nurses for the typical work schedule of surgical nurses include the cheapest online nurse practitioner programs, which offer advanced training and knowledge to manage the role's complex and sometimes unpredictable nature. Here's what you can expect:

Shift Lengths: Many surgical nurses work 12-hour shifts, although 8-hour shifts are also common. The schedule may include rotating shifts covering day, evening, and night.
On-Call Requirements: Depending on their employment setting, surgical nurses may be on-call during nights, weekends, and holidays, ready to assist with emergency surgeries or unexpected patient needs.
Flexibility and Overtime: While some nurses prefer set schedules, others are comfortable with flexibility, which includes overtime. Overtime shifts are often compensated at a higher rate, which can be a financial incentive.
Work-Life Balance: Managing work-life balance can be challenging due to the demanding nature of surgical nursing. However, the structured scheduling typical of many roles allows for longer breaks between shifts, which can provide valuable personal time and recovery periods.

How can surgical nurses integrate nutritional strategies into patient care?

Surgical nurses can enhance patient recovery by incorporating evidence-based nutritional strategies into perioperative care. Integrating tailored nutrition plans and collaborating with dietetics professionals can improve wound healing and decrease complication risks. By adopting a holistic approach, these professionals may consider specialized training to expand their expertise as a nutrition nurse, ensuring that dietary considerations are aligned with surgical protocols. This interdisciplinary strategy supports optimal outcomes and reinforces the critical role nutrition plays in patient care management.

How can bridging education programs enhance career progression in surgical nursing?

Bridging education programs are a strategic avenue for surgical nurses aiming to elevate their clinical expertise and assume advanced leadership roles. These programs, which are designed to build upon the foundation provided by an Associate Degree in Nursing, streamline the transition to a Master’s level qualification by integrating advanced clinical content, management training, and specialized practice modules. Surgical nurses who pursue these pathways often experience accelerated career progression, better job prospects, and enhanced proficiency in complex healthcare settings. For a focused approach to this career advancement, consider exploring programs such as ADN to MSN online that are tailored to meet the evolving demands of modern surgical care.

How can surgical nurses manage work stress and prevent burnout?

Surgical nursing demands enduring high-pressure scenarios and rapid decision-making, making stress management vital for long-term career sustainability. Evidence-based approaches—including structured debriefing, mindfulness techniques, and access to mental health services—support resilience and reduce burnout risks. Institutions that integrate these practices often see improved team dynamics and patient safety. Furthermore, targeted educational initiatives, such as training modules on stress reduction and self-care strategies, enhance both personal well-being and professional performance. For those considering advanced practice roles as a pathway to diversified responsibilities, exploring opportunities through cheapest nurse practitioner programs may also contribute to a more balanced workload and increased job satisfaction.

Is Surgical Nursing the right career path for you?

Pursuing a career in surgical nursing offers a promising path within the healthcare industry. Additionally, you can open doors to advanced leadership roles within the healthcare industry with the availability of other degrees, such as online master’s programs in healthcare administration.

The roles and responsibilities associated with the surgical nursing profession allow for direct patient care and involvement in life-saving procedures. With a favorable job outlook, competitive salaries, and the opportunity to impact patients’ lives, surgical nursing presents an attractive career option for those passionate about providing exceptional healthcare.

Our team’s thorough research on the surgical nursing industry reveals that augmenting your surgical nursing skills with certifications like CNOR, CMSRN, and ACLS can be advantageous. These certifications can further enhance your expertise and proficiency in the field of surgical nursing.

Key Insights

Nursing Shortage: A significant shortage of 200,000 to 450,000 nurses is projected by 2025, highlighting the urgent need for more individuals to pursue nursing degrees.
Surgical Nursing Demand: The healthcare industry has a growing need for specialized roles like surgical nurses, driven by an increasing number of surgical procedures and advancements in medical technology.
Career Outlook: Surgical nursing offers favorable salaries and job prospects, with a median annual wage of $77,600 for registered nurses and a projected growth rate of 6% from 2021 to 2031.
Essential Skills: Key skills for surgical nurses include patient care, basic life support (BLS), acute care, effective communication, emotional stability, and attention to detail.
Educational Requirements: Starting a career in surgical nursing requires at least an associate's degree, with higher educational levels such as bachelor's and master's degrees offering more advanced career opportunities.
Career Advancement: Obtaining certifications and higher degrees can lead to advanced roles like nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, researcher, or nurse educator in surgical nursing.
Alternative Careers: Skills acquired in surgical nursing can be applied to alternative careers such as quality improvement specialist or medical device sales representative.

FAQ

1. What educational qualifications are necessary to become a surgical nurse?

To become a surgical nurse, you typically need at least an associate's degree in nursing. However, a bachelor's degree in nursing is often preferred and can open doors to more advanced positions. Additionally, obtaining relevant certifications and pursuing higher degrees can further enhance career prospects.

2. What are the main responsibilities of a surgical nurse?

A surgical nurse's responsibilities include preparing patients for surgery, assisting during surgical procedures, providing post-operative care, educating patients and their families, maintaining sterile environments, and monitoring vital signs.

3. What are the job prospects for surgical nurses?

The job outlook for surgical nurses is promising, with a projected growth rate of 6% from 2021 to 2031. The demand for skilled surgical nurses is high due to the increasing number of surgical procedures and advancements in medical technology.

4. What certifications are beneficial for a career in surgical nursing?

Beneficial certifications for surgical nurses include Certified Perioperative Nurse (CNOR), Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse (CMSRN), and Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS). These certifications validate specialized knowledge and skills, enhancing job prospects and career advancement opportunities.

5. Can I start a career in surgical nursing with just a certificate?

While a certificate in surgical nursing can provide specialized training, it may not be sufficient for obtaining a surgical nursing job independently. Most employers prefer candidates with at least an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in surgical nursing, along with clinical experience.

6. What alternative career options are available for surgical nurses?

Surgical nurses can explore alternative careers such as quality improvement specialist, where they evaluate and enhance patient care quality, or medical device sales representative, where they promote and sell surgical equipment and devices using their clinical knowledge and experience.

7. How can I advance my career in surgical nursing?

Advancing your career in surgical nursing involves pursuing higher education, such as a master's or doctorate degree, and obtaining relevant certifications. Advanced roles include nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, researcher, or nurse educator in surgical nursing.

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