Which professional is trained to perform operative procedures?

• A. Surgeon
• B. Pulmonologist
• C. Urologist
• D. RN

Answer: (A)

Performing operative procedures is the work of surgeons. A surgeon is a physician who completes medical school and specialized surgical training, learning how to plan, perform, and manage operations across body systems, as well as the perioperative care before and after surgery. A pulmonologist focuses on medical treatment of lung diseases and may perform some non-surgical procedures, but not the broad role of performing surgeries. A urologist is indeed a surgeon who operates on the urinary tract, but the question targets the general professional trained to carry out operative procedures, which is best described by the surgeon. A registered nurse assists and supports the surgical team but does not perform operative surgeries.