What does PNSA mean in NURSING

A perioperative nurse surgical assistant (PNSA) is an individual with both nursing and surgical assistant experience. They are responsible for scrubbing in for surgery and providing care for patients before, during, and after surgery. PNSAs must have clear knowledge of anatomy and physiology, as well as understanding of infection control techniques. Additionally, PNSAs must be able to work with multiple healthcare providers in order to ensure the best possible care for each patient.

As part of their duties, PNSAs monitor vital signs of patients under anesthesia, set up and maintain sterile fields, assist surgeons during procedures, close surgical incisions, dress wounds, provide post-op care instructions to patients and families, report changes in the patient's condition to the surgeon or anesthesiologist and help restock supplies.

To become a PNSA you will need to earn your diploma or degree in nursing as a registered nurse (RN). You will also need specialized training related to surgery including anatomy and physiology; wound management; sterilization processes; infection control; medical terminology; equipment handling procedures; intra-operative physiology; operation room safety protocols and other topics related to the operating room environment.

It typically takes 2-4 years to become an RN after completing the necessary educational requirements. It might also involve additional time if further training is needed in order to obtain certification as a PNSA such as specialized courses or hands-on experience in operating rooms.

Yes! The National Board of Surgical Technology &Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) offers certification specifically for PNSAs through its Certified Operating Room Technician exam (CORT). Passing this exam certifies that you meet all the requirements necessary for working as a perioperaive nurse surgical assistant.

As a PNSA you should thrive working under pressure while maintaining calmness and accuracy at all times. You should be able demonstrate critical thinking skills while providing direct patient care before during and after surgeries. Professionalism is key so even when challenges come up strong interpersonal skills along with good communication skills are invaluable assets that are highly desired within this field.

While prior experience may be helpful it is not always required since many employers offer on-the job training programs which equip individuals with all the necessary technical proficiencies they need while performing their duties as PNSAs. That being said relevant prior experience can definitely be beneficial when pursuing roles as these professionals since it provides prospective employers with more confidence about your ability levels.