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How to become a surgeon

Operate on patients to repair, remove, or replace damaged or diseased tissues and organs.

What does a surgeon do?

Surgeons are highly trained medical doctors who heal patients through surgery. Using specialised instruments and techniques, they work with a team of medical professionals to perform surgical procedures in hospitals.

Duties and tasks

  • Consult with anaesthetists to determine the appropriate anaesthesia for patient.

  • Examine patienta and analyse medical histories to verify the need for surgery and to determine the best procedure.

  • Check the operating room, equipment and instruments to ensure sterility.

  • Oversee the activities of nurses, assistants, specialists, and other medical staff.

  • Perform surgical operations to repair injuries, correct deformities, and treat diseases.

  • Prescribe post-operative care and follow up with patients.

Industry bodies

Related jobs

  • Cardiothoracic surgeon

  • General surgeon

  • Life scientist

  • Medical practitioner

  • Neurosurgeon

  • Orthopaedic surgeon

  • Paediatric surgeon

  • Plastic and reconstructive surgeon

  • Physician

  • Urologist

  • Vascular surgeon

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Take your first step towards a career in health—including nursing

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La Trobe University

Bachelor of Health Sciences

UndergraduateLAT-HSC-DEG

Explore health from many perspectives

The field of health is diverse. This online health course offers broad majors, minors, and work based learning to focus your skills and get real-world experience. From psychological science to public health, the choice is yours.

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La Trobe University

Start studying health and get ready to make a difference

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Diploma in Health Sciences

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3, 2, 1… start your career in health sciences

Whether you want to do further study or start work straight away, this diploma is a great entry point. Learn the basics of health sciences, from human structure and function to health data. Earn up to 1 year's course credit for the bachelor's degree.

Study method
100% online
Duration
1 year full time or part time equivalent
Entry requirements
No ATAR required. Start with a subject.

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Explore health science courses

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