Surgical First Assist

Surgical First AssistantQualificationsEducationHigh school diploma or equivalent GEDGraduate from a surgical assisting program accredited through ARC/STSA, a collaborative effort of ASA, ACS, and SASA, by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). CAAHEP is a recognized accreditation agency of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).Experience/SkillsHas at least two years of surgical technician experience with additional experience as Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA)Exhibits verbal and written communication skillsDemonstrates a working knowledge of general computer skills and applicationsUnderstands specialized first assistant techniques, procedures, and adequate equipment related to hemostasis, retracting and suturing skillsDemonstrates self-motivationWorks effectively in collaboration with othersMultitasks effectivelyAdaptableRequired Licenses/CertificationsOperating Room Technician/First Assistant CertificationCPRWorking ConditionsWorks in a clean, well-lit working environmentOccupational exposureRoutine ResponsibilitiesPatient PositioningThe surgeon shall convey the exact position that will give the best exposure for the surgical procedure. The surgical assistant will collaborate with the RN Circulator to carry out the order with consideration to the patient’s comfort and safetyPoints of pressure shall be padded: elbows, heels, knees, eyes, face, and axillary regionCirculation shall not be impairedNerve damage shall be guarded againstThe temperature of the patient should be discussed with the anesthesia personnel and methods employed to maintain the desired temperature rangeFamiliar with common position related to surgical procedure and will be able to use the equipment necessary to provide the position. Competencies will include the following: fracture tables; head stabilizers; body stabilizers; C-arm extensions; any other equipment neededUpon completion of the procedure, the patient shall be evaluated for any possible damage from positioning which will include assessment of the skin. The abnormal condition shall be reported to the surgeon and treatment and documentation shall be carried outVisualization of the Operative SiteAppropriate placement and securing of retractors with or without paddingPacking with spongesDigital manipulation of tissueSuctioning, irrigating, or spongingManipulation of suture materials (e.g., loops, tags, running sutures)Appropriate Hemostasis Assisting TechniquesPermanent: clamping and/or cauterizing vessels or tissue; tying and/or ligating clamped vessels or tissue; applying hemostatic clips; placing local hemostatic agentsTemporary: applying tourniquets and demonstrating awareness of the indications/contraindications for use with knowledge of side effects of extended use; applying vessel loops; applying non crushing clamps; applying direct digital pressureAppropriate Closure of Body Planes Assisting TechniquesUtilizing running or interrupted sutures with absorbable or nonabsorbable material of wound layers, including muscle and fasciaUtilizing subcuticular closure technique with or without adhesive skin closure stripsClosing skin with method per surgeon’s directive (suture, staples, etc.)Postoperative subcutaneous injection of local anesthetic per surgeon’s directiveAppropriate Wound Dressings Selection and ApplicationLiquid or spray occlusive materialsAbsorbent material affixed with tape or circumferential wrappingImmobilizing dressing (soft or rigid)Provides assistance in securing drainage systems to tissueMiscellaneous:In addition to the responsibilities outlined in this job description, the Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) is also expected to perform all duties described under the Surgical Technologist duties outlined in policy # 215.69.Day Shift 80 hours/Bi-Weekly