Plastic Surgery Nurse
A plastic surgery nurse assists in a variety of cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries, provides patient care, and educates patients about procedures and recovery.
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Sample Job Descriptions for Plastic Surgery Nurse
Below are the some sample job descriptions for the different experience levels, where you can find the summary of the role, required skills, qualifications, and responsibilities.
Junior (0-2 years of experience)
Summary of the Role
An entry-level position responsible for supporting patients through the plastic surgery process, including pre-operative and post-operative care.
Required Skills
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Attention to detail and accuracy
- Ability to work well in high-stress environments
- Willingness to learn and adapt to new procedures and techniques
- Compassionate patient care and a strong sense of empathy
Qualifications
- Associate's Degree in Nursing or Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- Valid Registered Nurse (RN) license
- Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certifications
- Exposure to the field of plastic or cosmetic surgery is a plus
- Strong understanding of sterile techniques and infection control protocols
Responsibilities
- Assist in patient assessments and screenings before surgery
- Provide pre-operative and post-operative care and instructions to patients
- Assist plastic surgeons during procedures as needed
- Monitor patients' vital signs and report any concerns to the surgeon
- Administer medications and treatments as ordered by the physician
- Educate patients on recovery protocols, potential side effects, and timeline for healing
- Maintain accurate and detailed patient records
- Ensure all surgical areas and equipment are sterilized and properly set up
- Participate in patient follow-ups to check on the healing process
Intermediate (2-5 years of experience)
Summary of the Role
Plastic Surgery Nurses, also known as Aesthetic Nurses or Cosmetic Nurses, are responsible for assisting with clinical procedures associated with cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. They provide pre- and post-operative care, administer medication, and offer support and education to patients seeking plastic surgery. The role requires a blend of clinical expertise, compassion, and an understanding of the aesthetic elements of plastic surgery.
Required Skills
- Strong clinical skills with attention to detail
- Good interpersonal and communication skills
- Knowledge of surgical procedures and protocols
- Ability to work as part of a team and collaborate effectively with other healthcare professionals
- Compassion and empathy for patients undergoing cosmetic procedures
- Strong organizational and multi-tasking abilities
Qualifications
- Active RN license in the state of practice
- Intermediate level experience in a clinical setting, preferably in plastic surgery or a related field
- BLS/ACLS certification required
Responsibilities
- Assist during plastic surgical procedures, ensuring patient safety and comfort
- Provide pre- and post-operative care, including monitoring recovery and educating patients on aftercare instructions
- Administer medications and document patient responses
- Collaborate with plastic surgeons and other healthcare professionals to develop comprehensive care plans
- Maintain patient records with accurate documentation of nursing assessments, interventions, and outcomes
- Support patients emotionally throughout their plastic surgery journey, addressing concerns and expectations
- Ensure the surgical environment is properly prepared and sterile
Senior (5+ years of experience)
Summary of the Role
The Plastic Surgery Nurse will provide specialized care to patients undergoing plastic, reconstructive, and cosmetic procedures. With a patient-focused approach, this role ensures the delivery of high-quality postoperative care, patient education, and assists surgeons during procedures.
Required Skills
- Excellent patient care and assessment skills.
- Strong communication and interpersonal abilities.
- Detail-oriented with the ability to multitask.
- Compassion and understanding for patients undergoing cosmetic and reconstructive surgery.
- Proficiency in electronic medical record systems.
- Ability to remain calm and effective in emergency situations.
Qualifications
- Valid RN license in the state of practice.
- Minimum of 5 years of nursing experience with at least 2 years in a plastic surgery or similar specialty setting.
- Certification in Plastic Surgical Nursing (CPSN) is preferred.
- BLS/ACLS certification.
- Strong understanding of surgical procedures, aseptic technique, and postoperative care.
- Proven ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced surgical environment while maintaining high standards of care.
Responsibilities
- Provide preoperative and postoperative nursing care to patients undergoing plastic or cosmetic surgery.
- Assist plastic surgeons during various procedures and operations.
- Offer patient education and support regarding surgical procedures, recovery, and expected outcomes.
- Monitor patient vital signs and recovery progress, and report any concerns to the surgeon.
- Ensure a sterile and safe surgical environment.
- Administer medications, including pain relief as prescribed.
- Maintain accurate patient records and document all care provided.
- Coordinate with multidisciplinary teams to develop and implement patient care plans.
- Stay current with advancements in plastic surgery nursing practices.
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