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Assist and provide aid in exposure, hemostasis, closure, and other intraoperative technical functions that help the surgeon carry out a safe operation with optimal results for the patient. In addition to intraoperative duties, the surgical assistant also performs preoperative and postoperative duties to better facilitate proper patient care. The surgical assistant performs these functions during the operation under the direction and supervision of the surgeon and in accordance with hospital policy and appropriate laws and regulations.

ACCOUNTABILITIES

*All duties listed below are essential unless noted otherwise*

1. Demonstrates proficiency in proper scrub technique and the handling of instruments, supplies and equipment for the assigned cases following department policies and procedures and job description. Demonstrates age related competency in the scrub role for the following age populations: infant, pediatric, adolescent, adult, geriatric.

2. Utilizes preference lists, in-depth knowledge of anatomy and physiology, departmental policies and procedures and the patient’s age-related needs in preparing for and carrying out case responsibilities. Shares responsibilities with the clinical nurse for keeping preference cards current.

3. Maintains integrity of the sterile field by utilizing aseptic techniques and observation of the surgical team. Promptly addresses any observed breaks in sterile technique. Maintains proper supply of instruments, set-ups, and supplies specific to patient’s age and physician preferences. Takes self-initiative to assist other personnel with procedures.

4. Must maintain current certification and submit proof of current certification to the manager

annually (obtaining the required amount of continuing education units or contact hours as set forth by their professional organization at the present time.

5. Participates in the preceptorship of staff to the first assisting role. Acts as a role model and resource person for staff and students. Provides guidance and leadership to new employees and students.

6. Must maintain minimum number of hours in the first assisting role as defined by unit Director. Evidence of such hours to be maintained biannually in employee file. Completes First Assist competency annually which includes confirmation from a surgeon and a CRNFA through multiple direct observations of the first assisting role.

7. Performs at an advanced level of practice by competently and consistently performing in an expanded scrub and first assist role in one of the following specialties: neuro, vascular, ortho, eye, cardiovascular and advanced general.

8. The first assistant shall assist the surgeon in the performance of a safe operation and shall function only under the direct supervision of the surgeon. Performs assisting duties including but not limited to handling tissue, providing exposure using instruments, suturing, providing hemostasis, closing tissue and skin.

9. Maintains understanding of departmental goals and objectives and works with co-workers and management to obtain goals and objectives.

10. Performs other duties as assigned.

Education: High school graduate or equivalent. Must be a graduate of an accredited certified surgical technologist program.

Skills: Must be able to understand directions and be able to communicate and respond to inquiries; requires effective interpersonal skills. Must be able to input and retrieve information from computer.

Years of Experience: 3+ years’ experience in the operating room.

License: N/A

Certification: Certification by the Association of Surgical Technologists (AST) or certification from NCCT required. CPR required. Must be successful in completion of a course in preparing the Surgical Technologist as a First Assistant in surgery. This course shall meet the recommended education standards for first assisting established by the Association of Operating Room Nurses (AORN) and shall include clinical practice under the direction of a registered nurse first assistant or licensed surgeon.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Personal Protective Equipment: N/A

Physical Demands:

Must be able to move about and between workstations.

Must be able to understand directions, communicate and respond to inquiries requires effective interpersonal skills.

Must be able to input and retrieve information from computer.

Must be able to lift medium materials, non-material handling of continuous standing, walking, bending, stooping, and reaching; frequent pushing, pulling, and squatting.

**Occasional sitting, stairs, and kneeling.

The above list of accountabilities is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by the positions; it should not be considered exhaustive.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex/gender (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression, age, physical or mental disability, military or protected veteran status, citizenship, familial or marital status, genetics, or other status protected by applicable law.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Drug-Free Workplace

**Requisition ID:** 92983