Adult Cardiothoracic Surgical Technologist

Surgical Technologist

Functions/Behaviors

1. Receives assignment for the day and checks rooms for equipment as necessary. Checks surgical posting card and surgeon preference card for supplies needed and works together with circulating nurse to open instrumentation / packs for the case in a timely manner. (E 10%)

2. Independently scrubs intermediate and complex surgical procedures in the first scrub role. Proficiency and knowledge in cardiac and thoracic procedures, anatomy and physiology, and specialized surgical instruments and equipment used in cardiovascular, vascular, and thoracic surgery. Coordinates and collaborates with OR board runner and surgical team to ensure proper and adequate instrumentation, supplies and resources are readily available to manage case volume. (E 10%)

3. Proficiency and knowledge in cardiac and thoracic procedures, anatomy and physiology, and specialized surgical instruments and equipment used in cardiovascular, vascular, and thoracic surgery. (E 25%)

4. Demonstrates critical thinking and problem solving in relation to the procedures performed by anticipating supply or instrument changes as procedures evolve to meet the surgeon's needs. Able to retain knowledge for future procedures. Must be able to perform the five (5) core emergency cases by the end of their probationary period. Core cases are: Emergency Craniotomy, Orthopedic Trauma, Penetrating Eye Injury, Door-busting Trauma, Code Angio/Vascular. (E 10%)

5. Provides updates to patient care coordinator to maintain accurate preference cards for cases performed. Assists in outreach to physicians regarding new or uncommon procedures for preference card selection, modification, and creation. (E 5%)

6. Performs the preceptor and mentor role for surgical technologist, surgical technologist students and serves as a resource for nursing students, medical students, and resident on aseptic technique. Mentors support staff on instruments and equipment. (E 5%)

7. Assess status of instrumentation and advise on needs for purchase and/or replacement of instruments, supplies and equipment using a cost conscious approach. Assists with long term planning for service line growth. (E 5%)

8. Coordinates and collaborates with OR board runner, patient care coordinators, and surgical team to ensure proper and adequate instrumentation, supplies and resources are readily available to manage case volume, facilitate efficient turn overs, and First Case on time starts. (E 5%)

9. Participates in the growth of the unit through upholding the standards of behavior. (E 10%)

• Addresses interpersonal conflicts directly with individuals involved, in a positive manner, utilizing supportive resources as necessary

• Functions as a team member by assisting colleagues

• Provides feedback to colleagues directly in a non-threatening relationship-preserving fashion.

• Treats mistakes by self and others as opportunities for growth, thereby creating a culture in which feedback is not only safe, but expected.

• Sets a positive tone, even in challenging situations, by treating others with caring and respect.

10. Works as a team throughout all perioperative tasks including but not limited to: assisting in the gathering and returning of equipment and supplies, moving patients, room turnovers, and opening and set up of operating rooms. (E 10%)

11. Demonstrates competence to perform assigned patient care responsibilities in a manner that meets the age-specific and developmental needs of patients served by the department. (E)

12. Appropriately adapts assigned patient assessment, treatment and/or care methods to accommodate the unique physical, psychosocial, cultural, age-specific and other developmental needs of each patient served. (E)

13. Supports University Health System mission, vision and values. Demonstrates established customer service behaviors and standards. Treats all customers with courtesy, dignity, respect and professionalism. (E)

14. Performs other duties as assigned. (E 5%)

Education/Experience

Associates degree and completion of an accredited Surgical Technologist Program and a certification as a surgical technologist; OR received certificate prior to 2022; OR employed as a surgical technologist for one (1) year in a health care facility before September 1, 2009; OR, completion of an appropriate training program for surgical technology in the Armed Services of the United States or in the United States Public Health Service. Two years' Cardiothoracic experience in the Operating Room as a Surgical Technologist is preferred.