Surgical Technologist First Assistant

Job Description

The Surgical First Assistant is trained to assist surgeons of all types, in the operating room. They assist in operations, harvesting of saphenous vein, exposure of the surgical field, cutting, and in suturing. They also position and move patients.

Responsibilities

• Assists in necessary preparations prior to surgery.
• Demonstrates principles of safe positioning of the surgical patient. Provides visualization of the operative site.
• Demonstrates appropriate techniques to assist with the closure of body parts at the discretion of surgeon.
• Anticipates the needs of the surgeon.
• Demonstrates knowledge in emergent situations. Demonstrates a professional attitude and superior organizational skills. P
• erforms other related duties as assigned or requested. Maintain stamina for prolonged standing.
  
  

Qualifications

Education - Specialized training to become a surgical assistant is two years long. The first year is a didactic year during which the student learns anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, and introduction to the operating room. The second year is clinical year, where the student rotates to different hospitals, learning surgical skills from both surgeons and surgical assistants in practice. In the second year, students will participate in numerous operations of all types which range from general surgery to specialized areas. Once the curriculum is completed, the graduate is the eligible to sit for the written boards for certification as a surgical assistant through the National Surgical Assistant Association.