Surgical First Assist - Surgical First Assistant

Surgical Technologist First Assistant

Profession: Surgical Technologist Specialty: Surgery Duration: 13 weeks Shift: Days Hours per Shift: 10 hours (7am to 5:30pm) Experience: Minimum 3 years of relevant experience within a surgical services nursing department License: CRT-Surgical Technologist, Certified (CST) Certifications: CST, CSFA, BLS Must-Have: Successfully complete a certification STFA course CRT-Surgical First Assistant, Certified (CSFA) NBSTSA CRT-Basic Life Support (BLS) AHA CRT-Adv Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) AHA preferred

The Surgical Technologist First Assistant (STFA) possesses advanced knowledge of anatomy and physiology. The STFA utilizes extensive patient assessment skills. They collaborate with all health team members to ensure optimal patient outcomes. The STFA performs activities at an expanded level of surgical technician practice executed within the context of the nursing process. Intraoperatively, the STFA actively assists the surgeon. They perform observable, technical behaviors including patient positioning, tissue handling, wound exposure, and wound closure. The STFA assesses, monitors, develops, and maintains an individualized patient plan of care. They deliver care in a culturally sensitive manner that preserves patient autonomy and dignity. The STFA identifies, facilitates, and evaluates outcomes of nursing care for individual patients or groups. They document patient care accurately and act as a patient advocate. The STFA initiates patient discharge planning at the initial patient contact. They ensure that required documentation is performed accurately and timely. The STFA provides evidence-based patient care consistent with guidelines and physician orders. They communicate with other members of the healthcare team to ensure continuity of care. The STFA evaluates patients and families' educational needs and develops appropriate teaching strategies. They demonstrate a high standard of moral and ethical behavior while advocating for privacy and confidentiality. The STFA assumes an autonomous leadership role and delegates appropriately to facilitate safe, quality care. Intra-operatively, the STFA assists the surgeon performing technical behaviors. The intern is supervised by a preceptor and works towards independence by completing all STFA competencies.