Surgical 1st Assistant

Summary

The Surgical First Assistant will work with organ recovery and transplant surgeons, assisting in the recovery of organs for transplant, research, and tissue. In addition to performing first assistant duties you may be cross-trained in additional roles within the department that include, but not limited to, pulsatile preservation of kidneys, tissue recovery, and organ preservation.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Performs the role of Surgical first assistant
  
  

Must possess a working knowledge of operating room procedures, infection control, and surgical attire. Demonstrates the ability to anticipate the needs and work closely with our organ recovery and transplant surgeons. Assists with all aspects of the organ and tissue recovery process, which includes but is not limited to, clamping, suturing, tying, ligating, and cutting of tissue per surgeon’s directive.

• Performs tissue and research recovery
  
  

Performs recoveries adhering to and exemplifying established protocols and procedures. Coordinates clinical activities with OR staff, Transplant Coordinator staff, and Perfusion staff. Follows procedures for maintaining a sterile environment during recovery. Follows good documentation practices.

• Performs the role of pulsatile preservation of kidneys
  
  

May be cross-trained to perform pulsatile preservation of kidneys. Adheres to the policies and procedures applicable to the pulsatile preservation role.

• Supports department training and quality processes
  
  

Precepts and trains team members as assigned. Assists with the continued implementation and improvement of safety and quality assurance programs. Makes recommendations to department leadership to improve procedures for tissue and organ recovery.

• Participates in special projects to support the department’s contribution to the Gift of Life Mission
  
  

Provides support to department and organization leadership in meeting annual departmental goals and objectives. Assists department leadership with special projects.

Qualification Requirements (Education, Experience, Skill, Knowledge & Ability)

• Completion of a formal surgical first assistant training program.
• Experience working in an operating room as a first assistant.
• Must be able to remain alert and work 18-24 or more consecutive hours, perform on-call duties on scheduled weekdays, weekends, and holidays, and regularly participate in continuing education and mandatory staff meetings.
• Possess a valid driver’s license, be insurable, and possess or be capable of acquiring a valid U.S passport or valid travel documentation.
• First Assistant certification preferred
• Must be able to drive to any hospital in the Gift of Life service area and may need to fly via helicopter or fixed-wing aircraft to hospitals within our service area or anywhere in the United States and Canada.
• Knowledge of surgical aseptic techniques, human anatomy, and physiology
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to partner with colleagues and peers
• Ability to multitask and prioritize in a rapidly changing and high-pressure clinical environment
• Proficiency with the Microsoft Office suite
  
  

Physical Demands

• Must be able to stand for extended periods of time and lift 50-70 pounds in order to move supplies and position patients.
• Must be able to remain alert and work for 18-24 or more consecutive hours.
• Must be able to drive in adverse weather conditions.
• Must be able to drive to any hospital in the Gift of Life service area and may need to fly via helicopter or fixed-wing aircraft to hospitals within our service area or anywhere in the United States and Canada.
  
  

What’s in it for you?

• Outstanding benefits package including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision insurance; tuition assistance, and 403(b) with employer match up to 11%,
• Guaranteed pay for a 40-hour work week.
• Opportunity to work with welcoming, inclusive co-workers.
  
  

We are an equal opportunity employer and support diversity in our workplace