Surgical First Assist/Surgical Tech

Surgical Technologist / First Assist

The Surgical Technologist / First Assist is responsible for supporting the surgical team before, during, and after operative procedures. This position performs surgical technologist duties while also providing first-assist support to the surgeon within the individual’s education, training, certification, and scope of practice. The Surgical Technologist / First Assist helps maintain a safe, efficient surgical environment and ensures appropriate instrumentation, supplies, and equipment are available throughout each procedure.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Support the mission, vision, and values of the organization.
• Prepare the operating room for surgical procedures, including equipment, instruments, supplies, and sterile field setup.
• Review physician preference cards and ensure appropriate instruments, supplies, implants, and equipment are available for scheduled procedures.
• Maintain sterile technique and follow infection prevention practices throughout surgical procedures.
• Perform surgical counts in collaboration with the circulating RN according to facility policy.
• Anticipate the needs of the surgeon and surgical team by passing instruments, supplies, and equipment efficiently throughout the procedure.
• Assist with patient positioning, skin preparation, draping, and other perioperative activities within scope of practice.
• Provide first-assist support to the surgeon as permitted by training, certification, facility policy, and applicable regulations.
• Perform first-assist functions as appropriate, including providing exposure, retraction, hemostasis, tissue handling, and assistance with wound closure under the direction of the surgeon.
• Assist with application of dressings and other post-procedure activities as directed.
• Handle surgical specimens appropriately and according to facility policy.
• Assist with room turnover and preparation for subsequent surgical cases.
• Inspect instruments and equipment for proper function and communicate any concerns or needed repairs.
• Collaborate professionally with surgeons, anesthesia providers, nurses, sterile processing staff, and other members of the perioperative team.
• Follow organizational policies, regulatory and accreditation standards, and applicable professional guidelines.
• Participate in quality improvement and patient safety initiatives.
• Maintain patient privacy and confidentiality at all times.

Qualifications

• Graduate of an accredited Surgical Technology and/or Surgical First Assistant program, as applicable.
• Current surgical technologist certification, such as CST, preferred or required based on applicable state and facility requirements.
• Current CSFA, CSA, or other recognized Surgical First Assistant credential, as applicable to the position.
• Current BLS certification.
• Previous operating room or ambulatory surgery center experience preferred.
• Demonstrated knowledge of surgical instrumentation, sterile technique, infection prevention, and perioperative practices.
• Experience providing first-assist services preferred.
• Ability to anticipate surgeon and procedural needs and work effectively in a fast-paced surgical environment.
• Strong communication, organization, and teamwork skills.