Surgical Technologist I, Birth Center, Full-Time, Night Shift

Surgical Technologist I

Be a part of a world-class academic healthcare system, University of Chicago Medicine, as a Surgical Technologist I in the Birth Center department. This position is a 100% onsite opportunity. You will need to be based in the greater Chicagoland area.

This position assists the nursing and medical staff in providing care to patients undergoing surgical intervention and performance of surgical scrub technologist duties; collaborates with nursing and other disciplines, when necessary, to revise the plan of care to meet the changing needs of the patient. Has constant contact with the Operating Room staff, physicians, clerical staff, anesthesia staff and materials management.

Essential Job Functions

• Independently performs surgical scrub role within the operative field and is able to scrub in all services, adult and pediatric.
• Applies knowledge of surgical techniques.
• Applies knowledge related to emergency and trauma situations and surgical procedures in the operating room.
• Demonstrates infection control practices by utilizing proper aseptic technique while dealing with blood/body fluid.
• Correctly uses all sterilizers and high level disinfectors related to surgical procedures;
• documents appropriately and maintains competencies, as required.
• In conjunction with Unit leadership, Charge Nurse and Central Sterile Processing, demonstrates organizational skills in case preparation, case cart picking and accurate room set-up for instrument and tray contents in scheduled cases. Sets up instruments, supplies and equipment according to surgeon's preference cards, policies and procedures and standards of care.
• Operates and troubleshoots video systems as needed. Works in collaboration with Administrative Coordinators, Specialty Managers, Clinical Engineering, and In-House Vendors to maintain video systems.
• Provides cost-effective care by proper use of equipment and instruments. Demonstrates appropriate utilization of supplies based on assessed needs, standard of care and surgeon's preference cards.
• Demonstrates knowledge of immediate and long term outcomes of surgical activities including, but not limited to: sponge, needle and instrument count, aseptic technique, proper handling of specimens, proper labeling and handling of medications on sterile field and care of electrosurgical active electrodes and implants.
• Properly handles and cares for instrumentation.
• Assists in performing care of the surgical patient, including:
• Helps team to prepare room
• Helps open packs, supplies, and instrument sets
• Helps position patient
• Monitors sterile field
• Opens sterile supplies onto sterile field before procedure
• Performs counts
• Handles specimen(s)
• Assists with emergency situations
• Assures quality measures are met, such as Surgical Care Improvement Project (SCIP) core measures

Required Qualifications

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent. Graduate of Accredited Surgical Technologist program.
• Minimum experience is graduate of an accredited Surgical Technologist school.
• Interpersonal skills necessary to facilitate communication.
• Basic knowledge and ability to perform surgical technologist skills, analytical skills necessary to interpret and communicate data relevant to direct patient care to RN and MD.
• Ability to function as a member of the surgical team, carrying out the instructions of surgeons and of the Circulating RN and Surgical Technologist Preceptor with speed, accuracy, and concentration.
• Able to prioritize daily activities.
• Able to recognize and intervene in life threatening situations.
• Able to maintain composure under stressful circumstances.
• CST certification required
• CST certification can be obtained within 12 months of hire
• BLS required

Position Details

• Job Type/FTE: 0.9
• Shift: Night
• Work Location: Hyde Park
• Unit/Department: Birth Center - Delivery Room
• CBA Code: Non-Union