Certified Surgical First Assistant

Surgical First Assistant

Assists the surgeon during operative and other invasive procedures. Provides aid in exposure, hemostasis, closure, and other intraoperative technical functions that assists the surgeon in performing safe and efficient surgical intervention for the surgical procedure(s) with the goal of optimal results for the patient. Performs functions during the operation under the direction and supervision of the surgeon and in accordance with hospital policy, Medical staff Rules and Regulations and appropriate laws and regulations. In addition to intraoperative duties, provides support to the entire surgical team to facilitate the comprehensive perioperative interventions for safe and efficient patient care processes.

The surgical operating room (SOR) staff provide intraoperative care to surgical and procedural sedation patients. The SOR staff provide service for the patient population of pediatrics, adolescents, adult and elderly patients. The SOR staff work with a variety of provider specialties in caring for people being discharged same day or for those patients who are being admitted to the hospital.

High school diploma or equivalent required. Current Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) or equivalent certification required. Healthcare Provider Level BLS required.

Computer Literacy - Knowledge of electronic equipment, computer hardware and software relative to access and use of employee program responsibilities. Ability to access and use electronic instruments and equipment related to performing required surgical procedure functions.

Critical thinking - Ability to analyze, proactively plan, prepare, organize, prioritize and make effective clinical decisions. Possess skills to make appropriate decisions based on the surgeon's and/or patient's needs (or seek help appropriately) in order to provide safe, efficient and timely support to the surgeon and surgical team.

Time Management – Able to perform multiple tasks simultaneously and thrive in a dynamic fast-paced, often stressful environment.

Communication/Teamwork- Ability to share, instruct, and assist other members of the surgical team and other hospital department leaders and staff. Demonstrate professional accountability and collaborative team work with a focus on proactive and ongoing exchange of helpful communications.

Problem Solving - Ability to identify issues, research and review related information, employ creativity and alternative thinking to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions related to providing appropriate size, type and/or style of instrumentation and/or equipment.

Social Perceptiveness - Ability to work with a diverse population from pediatrics to geriatrics with basic understanding of age-related differences in the planning and assistance in the performance of the related surgical procedure(s). Ability to tactfully discuss issues.

Knowledge of proper decontamination, washing, sorting, and reassembling of instruments. Knowledge of proper use of equipment utilized in the operating room. Knowledge of surgeon needs and techniques for procedures. Knowledge of basic and specialty instrumentation for: General, Ophthalmology, ENT, Ortho, OB/GYN, Urology, Vascular, Plastic, Endoscopic and Minimally Invasive Surgery procedures. Knowledge of surgical products and implants and the relevant applications; updating knowledge as needed.