Surgical Tech , PRN

Surgical Tech

Location: Merit Health River Region

Schedule: PRN - as needed

Job Summary

The Surgical Technician collaborates with the surgeon and perioperative team to deliver high-quality patient care during surgical procedures. This role prepares and maintains sterile surgical fields, assists with procedures, and ensures instruments and supplies are used appropriately. The Surgical Technician adheres to infection prevention standards, regulatory requirements, and facility policies to support optimal patient outcomes.

Essential Functions

• Prepares and maintains the operating room for surgical cases, ensuring all equipment, instruments, and supplies are properly organized and available by applying principles of Universal Precautions, asepsis, and sterile technique.
• Assists the surgical team by anticipating the needs of the surgeon and passing instruments and supplies accurately and efficiently.
• Handles surgical instruments according to their instructions for use and ensures proper sterilization, inspection, and assembly.
• Performs point-of-use cleaning and carefully handles instruments in compliance with infection control and professional standards. Performs sponge, needle, and instrument counts with the circulating nurse to ensure patient safety.
• Assists in patient positioning, draping, and transfer methods to ensure safety and comfort during procedures.
• Maintains and updates physician preference cards, ensuring accurate supplies and instruments are available for procedures.
• Cleans, reprocesses, and sterilizes surgical instruments and equipment following established protocols.
• Contributes to perioperative team efficiency by restocking supplies, returning equipment to storage, and ensuring operating rooms are ready for subsequent cases.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Maintains regular and reliable attendance.
• Complies with all policies and standards.

Qualifications

• Technical School graduate of Surgical Technology or Practical Nursing program required or
• Associate Degree in Surgical Technology or Applied Sciences required
• 0-2 years of operating room surgical technician experience required

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of surgical procedures, instrumentation, and aseptic techniques.
• Strong understanding of sterilization methods and infection prevention practices.
• Ability to anticipate the needs of the surgical team and respond quickly and effectively.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills to collaborate with the perioperative team.
• Attention to detail and organizational skills to ensure procedural accuracy and efficiency.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks in a high-pressure environment while maintaining professionalism.

Licenses and Certifications

• BCLS - Basic Life Support required
• CST - Certified Surgical Technologist preferred