Job Description:

• Demonstrates working knowledge of aseptic technique, its surgical application and associated standards of care.
• Demonstrates working knowledge of the physiological and anatomical aspects of assigned surgical procedures.
• Reviews the patient medical chart and associated documentation to include: the H&P, tests/laboratory findings, x-ray and EKG results and consent forms. Relays pertinent information and contraindicates to the appropriate surgical team members.
• Under the direct supervision of the attending staff surgeon, functions as first and/or second assistant during operative procedures.
• Provides assistance to the operating room team. Participates in positioning of the surgical patient and setting up required equipment.
• Performs an appropriate surgical skin preparation for assigned procedures.
• Assists with the transportation of patients to and from the surgical pavilion as required.
• Practices body substance precautions according to established guidelines.
• Promotes a positive atmosphere in the work place by demonstrating respect, dignity and integrity for all employees and co-workers.
• Maintains current knowledge of operating room issues. Attends weekly/monthly departmental meetings and in-service programs.
• Manages time effectively. Attends to on-call responsibilities as assigned and complies with the hospitals attendance policy.
• Other duties as assigned.
• Follows Hospital and department policies and procedures with special attention to attendance and punctuality, confidentiality, dress code and display of ID badge, and safety.
• Completes mandatory education and training in order to maintain organization and department-specific competencies and requirements.

Education:

• Graduate of an accredited Surgical Assistant program OR
• Completion of the Registered Nurse First Assist (RNFA) course.

Certifications:

• BLS from AHA required
• Prefer Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) from National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical assisting (NBSTSA).

Complexity of Work:

• Maintains competencies specific to patient population served.
• The ability to comprehend and follow through with detailed instructions.
• Good verbal communication skills. Ability to maintain professional relationships with coworkers.
• Ability to work under extreme stress and distractions.

Work Experience:

• Must have at least three years of on-the-job surgery training to substitute for formal training as Surgical Assistant or Registered Nurse First Assist.
• Completion of military surgical technology program will meet the requirements of an accredited Surgical training program.

Physical Requirements:

• Have exceptional dexterity and quick response ability.
• Requires full range of body motion including handling and lifting patient, manual and ginger dexterity and eye-hand coordination.
• Requires standing and walking for extended periods of time.
• Requires corrected vision and hearing to normal range.
• Requires working under stressful conditions and irregular hours.
• Exposure to communicable diseases and/or body fluids.
• Able to safely transport patients on stretchers to bed using good body mechanics.
• Works extended hours as necessary.

Personal Protective Equipment:

• Follows Standard Precautions using personal protective equipment as required.