Surgical Technologist First Assist

J  o  b    D  e  s  c  r  i  p  t  i  o  n

          Joy                         Care                      Competence                    Respect

Position Summary

Provides direct support to surgeon and clinical team throughout perioperative phase of care. Positions and preps patients prior to surgery, ensures clear visibility for the surgeon by using instruments such as retractors and sponges, controls bleeding, closes surgery sites and properly dresses wounds. Assists in maintaining an effective operating theater and optimizes procedural care.

High School Diploma or GED is required.

Associates degree in surgical technology is preferred.

Graduate or successful completion of accredited Surgical Technology or Surgical First Assist program or has successfully completed military training in surgical technology is required.

Military documentation to establish education includes a DD214 demonstrating graduation from a military training program.

3 years of experience in surgical services is preferred.

Certification as a Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) issued by National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) is required.

Certification as a Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) issued by National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA), certification as a Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA) issued by the National Commission for the Certification of Surgical Assistants (NCCSA), OR Surgical Assistant, Certified (SA-C) issued by American Board of Surgical Assistants (ABSA) is required (for hires/transfers after March 2025).

Basic Life Support (BLS) is required.

Demonstrates strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills.

Demonstrates excellent judgement, decision making, and problem-solving skills.

Possesses optimal time management and prioritization skills.

Demonstrates a high level of accuracy and maintains composure under pressure.

Performs work independently with minimal supervision.

Possess flexibility to work in a fast-paced dynamic environment.

Uses principles of aseptic technique to organize and maintain the sterile field.

Assembles and handles a variety of instrumentation and equipment identified for use by the surgical team.

Utilizes sponges, hemostats, electrocautery, ligatures, suctioning to maintain hemostasis.

Provides retraction and wound exposure for optimal visibility.

Assists with or performs wound closure and selects and applies appropriate dressings.

Assists in preparing for upcoming surgeries and by gathering supplies, equipment, and resources and preparing the operating room to receive patients.

Evaluates each patient and his/her progress towards expected outcomes and updates the plan of care accordingly.

Assists circulating nurse and physician in continuous assessment and intervention of patient needs.

Confers with surgeon and collaborates with team members on implementation of care plan.

Ensures cleanliness of the operating room equipment and assists with maintaining department organization.

Possess the information, skill, and understanding of the work to be performed.  Actively participates in continuing education opportunities and maintains certifications, licensure as appropriate.

Reduces the risk of healthcare acquired infections through compliance with current CDC hand hygiene guidelines and facility policies including the wearing of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), if applicable.  Utilizes standard precautions during patient contact and when handling contaminated materials.  Demonstrates compliance with National Patient Safety Goals.

Complies with all standards, policies and procedures including dress code, attendance and punctuality.  Attends required in-services and meetings and completes all mandatory competencies by deadline.  Commits to keeping all patient, student or colleague information confidential and maintains excellent interpersonal communication with the health care team colleagues.

Emphasizes a holistic approach to patient care-attending to body, mind, and spirit while upholding ethical principles with patient care and all other aspects of work.  Actively involves the patient and family in decisions about care.  Promotes quality care by participating in organizational councils/committees and/or support of related process.  Documents services provided to patients in the electronic medical record in accordance with policy and requirements. 

The purpose of this job description is to provide a summary of the major responsibilities performed by colleagues in this position. Colleagues may be requested to perform tasks other than those specifically presented in this job description.  Variances in job duties performed may exist between facilities, and colleagues may perform other related duties as assigned to meet the needs of the organization.

PHYSICAL, MENTAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS

Physical, Mental and Environmental Requirements Category:

Allied Health

Standing

X

Walking

X

Sitting

X

Lifting

X

50 lbs

Carrying

X

50 lbs

Pushing

X

50 lbs

Pulling

X

50 lbs

Climbing

X

Balancing

X

Stooping

X

Kneeling

X

Crouching

X

Crawling

X

Reaching

X

Use of Hands/Dexterity

X

Talking

X

Hearing

X

Eye/Hand/Foot Coordination

X

Extreme Cold

X

Extreme Heat

X

Humid

X

Wet

X

Noise

X

Hazards

X

Temperature Change

X

Positions in this category may experience a temperature change in his/her work environment.

Atmospheric Conditions

X

Vibration

X

Other