What are the responsibilities and job description for the Certified Surgical Technologist position at SageWest Health Care – Lander?
Description
At SageWest Health Care, we are committed to providing our patients with the highest quality, family-friendly care available. SageWest Health Care is located in Fremont County, Wyoming, encompassing two hospitals, one in Riverton and one in Lander. Each offers a wide range of healthcare services, including inpatient medical services, emergency room services, surgical services, imaging services, laboratory diagnostic services, primary care, infusion services, and women’s health.
Full-time, Monday - Friday 6:30 AM - 3:00 PM
Job Summary
The Certified Surgical Technician (CST) works under the direct supervision of a Registered Nurse to assist in surgical operations. The CST is responsible for ensuring the surgical suite is prepared, maintaining a sterile environment, passing instruments to surgeons during procedures, and assisting in room turnover. The CST plays a vital role in patient safety, infection control, and operational efficiency in the surgical setting.
Essential Functions
- Prepare the operating room with sterile instruments, equipment, supplies, and solutions required for surgical procedures.
- Maintain aseptic technique and sterile field throughout the procedure.
- Pass instruments and supplies to the surgeon and surgical team during procedures.
- Accurately track sponges, needles, and instruments before, during, and after surgical procedures to ensure nothing is retained.
- Assist with room turnover before and after procedures, including waste disposal and equipment reprocessing.
- Operate and monitor sterilization equipment in accordance with AAMI, AORN, TJC, and OSHA standards.
- Assist in processing specimens for laboratory analysis.
- Ensure proper documentation of instrument counts, procedures, and sterilization indicators.
- Comply with infection control, personal protective equipment, and safety protocols.
- Support performance improvement and risk management initiatives.
- Maintain readiness and functionality of surgical instruments and equipment.
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities/Expectations
- Must read, write, and communicate effectively in English.
- Demonstrated knowledge of surgical procedures, instrumentation, and sterile techniques.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to work accurately under pressure.
- Effective interpersonal and team collaboration skills.
- Must demonstrate regular and reliable attendance.
Qualifications
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Successful completion of a program in surgical technology accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) required.
Licenses/Certifications
- Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential required within time frame required by facility policy.
- Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required.
- De-escalation training required within time frame required by facility policy.
Experience
- 12 to 18 months of acute care operating room experience preferred.