Cert Surg Tech-First Asst

Overview

Functions as the surgeons’ assistant, working directly under his/her supervision throughout the procedures. Assists the nurse, surgeon, anesthesiologist and/or CRNA in the care of patients in the preoperative, intraoperative, and post-operative phase.

EDUCATION, CERTIFICATION, AND/OR LICENSURE:

• Graduate of a surgical technology accredited surgical assisting program, as well as CAAHEP (Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Programs).
• Current Certified Surgical Technologist (CST).
• Current Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA).
• Obtain Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification within 30 days of hire.

Experience

• Two (2) years of progressive clinical scrub experience in a CST role.

Preferred Qualifications

EDUCATION, CERTIFICATION, AND/OR LICENSURE:

• Recommendation from three (3) different multi-specialty surgeons to validate skill competency.

The statements described here are intended to describe the general nature of work being performed by people assigned to this position. They are not intended to be constructed as an all-inclusive list of all responsibilities and duties. Other duties may be assigned.

• Performs technical skills required to prepare for surgical procedures.
• Assists other perioperative team members in the care of the surgical patient.
• Provides direct patient care, identified and meets patient needs under the direct supervision of a registered nurse.
• Under direction/supervision of surgeon, assists the surgeon in the perioperative care of patients and perform duties as assigned.
• Assesses the needs of the patient as related to specific surgical procedures and collects supplies and equipment as related to the procedure.
• Delivers age appropriate care which addresses patients’ cultural, spiritual, and psychosocial needs.
• Promotes a safe environment conducive to the patient’s well-being. Observes for potential patient complications and reports observations to the Registered Nurse.
• May assist in scheduling OR cases, recording information, and revising and updating surgeon preference cards via the information management system. Able to utilize the electronic medical record when applicable.
• Functions in Central Reprocessing: decontamination of instruments, preparation of instruments for sterilization, demonstrates skill in the use of all equipment within CRP and maintains records for all equipment in accordance with policy/ procedure.
• Utilizes proper positioning of the patient with consideration of patient’s comfort and safety points of pressure padded without impairment of circulation.
• Provides visualization of the operative site by the following: appropriate placement and securement of retractions; packing with sponges; digital manipulation and tissue; suctioning, irrigating, sponging; manipulation of suture materials; proper use of body mechanics to prevent obstruction of surgeon’s view.
• Utilizes appropriate techniques with hemostasis for permanent and temporary techniques.
• Utilizes appropriate techniques to assist with closure of body planes.
• Selects and applies appropriate wound dressings.
• Provides assistance in securing drainage systems to tissues.

For Facilities With Specialty Accreditation Requirements

• Completion of annual required education related to specialty accreditation as defined by accreditation standards. Training may be completed through CBLs, trainings, In-services, and competency validation.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Capable of prolonged periods of standing and walking.
• Ability to lift up to 40-pounds and push/pull heavy loaded carts up to 200 lbs
• Possess visual, hearing, and oral acuity along with manual dexterity and technical ability.
• Ability to wear personal protective equipment and lead for extended periods of time.

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the…