Certified Surgical First Assistant

Surgical First Assistant

The Surgical First Assistant is a professional caregiver who works with anesthesia, surgeons, and other surgical personnel in patient care before, during, and after surgery. The Surgical First Assistant uses sterile technique and technical equipment to perform surgical procedures.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Sets up individual cases correctly using doctor's preference cards as a reference utilizing appropriate instruments and prosthetic devices.
• Applies medical technology of anatomy and physiology correctly.
• Employs proper aseptic techniques, demonstrates dexterity, and anticipates surgical team needs.
• Operates sterilizers according to instruction or policy following hospital procedures.
• Monitors implantable devices by sterile technique and proper function.
• Checks equipment for proper functioning prior to procedure.
• Uses and cares for equipment, tables, cautery units, and specialty equipment appropriately.
• Follows direction from physician to ensure patient is positioned appropriately and safely.
• Provides appropriate visualization of the operative site under the direction of the physician.
• Utilizes appropriate techniques to assist the physician maintain/obtain hemostasis.
• Utilizes appropriate techniques to assist the physician with closure of body planes.
• Applies appropriate wound dressings as ordered by the physician.
• Meets commitments, works independently, accepts accountability, handles change, stays focused under pressure, and meets attendance/punctuality requirements. Keeps information organized and accessible, maintains clean/functional work space, works systematically/efficiently, and manages time well.
• Performs delegated tasks as directed to maintain quality and enhance patient safety under the direct supervision of the participating surgeon.

Education

• Completion of Surgical Technologist program required.

Work Experience

• Experience as a Surgical Technologist or Surgical Nurse desired but not required.

Certification/License

• Current Surgical Technologist Certification. American Heart Association Basic Life Support certification. Current First Assistant Certification preferred.

Mental/Physical Requirements

• Considerable mental concentration required. Lifting up to 35 lbs., turning activities and nearly constant walking required. Standing, turning, carrying, pushing, pulling, stooping, crouching, twisting, and reaching.

Working Conditions

• Frequent exposure to infectious disease and hostile persons at times. Frequent exposure to communicable disease via blood and other body fluids. Minimal physical discomfort.