Surgical Tech III

Job Objective:

Performs the duties of a scrub person; prepares supplies for case, sets up and maintains the sterile field, passes instruments and supplies to the surgeon, readies used instruments for the cleaning and re-sterilization process. Provides in-service education and assists with projects.

Job Description:

Education:

Required: High school diploma, GED or higher level degree if hired after January 1, 2025; successful completion of accredited Surgical Technology training program or five (5) years of additional Surgical Technologist experience in lieu of completion of training program

Licensure/Certification:

Required: Certification as a Surgical Technologist; American Heart Association Basic Life Support (BLS)

Experience:

Required: Three (3) years of experience as a Surgical Technologist in an acute multi-specialty environment, evidencing independent performance in a variety of surgical specialties

Essential Responsibilities:

• Demonstrates compliance with Code of Conduct and compliance policies, and takes action to resolve compliance questions or concerns and report suspected violations.
• Maintains aseptic technique according to the policies and procedures of Surgical Services.
• Anticipates surgeon’s needs by reviewing preference card, procuring appropriate supplies prior to start of case and remaining attentive to the progression of the case.
• Prepares supplies, room setup and equipment for cases; maintains orderly instrument table and surgical field.
• Verifies and labels medications and irrigations on the back table with nurse.
• Maintains and documents accurate sponge, needle, and instrument counts with the nurse.
• Accurately identifies surgical specimen and transfers to the nurse.
• Prepares instruments for cleaning and re-sterilization.
• Assists with putting away supplies and room turnover.
• Provides leadership for projects at unit level to correct safety/clinical quality deficiencies; lead / implement changes at the unit level.
• Provides in-service education for other staff members at least once per year.
• Assists in the development of policies, procedures and protocols at the department level.
• Contributes to maximum efficiency of the surgical line up in order to adhere to surgical start times.
• Contributes to cost effectiveness by using judgement when opening and using supplies; assists with developing processes to improve cost containment / decrease waste in room.
• Remains current with new intraoperative techniques and equipment through participation in unit based and continuing education.
• Serves as a role model to new employees and other staff members; coaches team to anticipate resources; acts as a preceptor to new staff and students.
• Participates in department projects; assists in the development of policies, procedures and protocols at the department level.
• Accepts responsibilities only within scope of practice.
• May be required to work at alternate sites.

Essential Skils:

• Ability to communicate with patients, healthcare professionals, and staff to ensure clear and accurate exchange of information
• Critical thinking skills
• Ability to scrub for complex procedures without assistance within assigned area(s)
• Advanced knowledge and practice of aseptic and surgical technique
• Advanced knowledge related to OR emergency situations
• Ability to take call independently and respond for all specialties within assigned area(s)
• Knowledge of the surgical environment regarding traffic patterns and contamination of the sterile field