Surgical Assistant

Professional and Technical Skills

• Demonstrates knowledge of surgical procedures, anatomy/physiology. Provides assistance to the surgeon with retraction/support of tissues and tying, suturing and closure of surgical wound (fascia, subcutaneous and skin).

• Assists in maintenance of hemostasis by direct pressure, use/application of appropriate surgical instruments, placement of ties/ligatures, application of chemical hemostatic agents, or other measures as directed by the surgeon.

• Under direct supervision of the surgeon, demonstrates knowledge/use of electrosurgical/bipolar pen.

• Under the direct supervision of the surgeon, identifies anatomical landmarks, clamps, ligates, and dissects tissue as deemed necessary for surgical procedures.

• Under the direct supervision of the surgeon, removes vein from the appropriate donor site for open heart surgery; and dissects the common femoral artery for vascular surgical procedures, as needed.

• Respects the patients ethnic origin, spiritual beliefs, and the right to privacy and confidentiality.

• Appropriately prioritizes multiple tasks simultaneously. Performs other duties as assigned.

• Ensures ongoing personal growth and development.

• Demonstrates knowledge of aseptic techniques.

• Obtains supplies and equipment for surgical procedures based on the needs of the patient/surgeon/ anesthesia provider. Assists in preparation for surgical procedures, including cleaning of room, equipment, and instrumentation.

• Assists the circulating nurse (RN) as directed by the circulating nurse (RN).

Patient Safety

• Under the direction of the RN, demonstrates knowledge of appropriate labeling and maintaining medication on the sterile field.

• Performs the initial/baseline sponge, needle, sharps and instrument counts with the RN. Performs consecutive sponge, needle, sharps and instrument counts with the RN.

• Maintains a safe environment for optimal patient outcomes.

Quality/Customer Service

• Demonstrates excellent customer service skills in dealing with patients, visitors, and health care team members.

• Participates in performance improvement activities.

• Demonstrates effective communication skills through active listening, effective verbal and written communications, and prompt response to issues/concerns.

• Maintains professional certification.

Financial Accountability

• Demonstrates fiscal accountability by efficient cost-effective utilization of equipment/supplies based on the needs of the patient/surgeon/anesthesia provider.

On-Call Responsibilities

• Responds in the required time frame for emergent surgical cases and is prepared and ready within the required time frame.

Performs other duties as assigned.

Education, Credentials, Licenses:

Must be enrolled in or have completed a Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) accredited Surgical First Assistant (SFA) program.*

Must obtain Surgical Assistant certification by National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA), American Board of Surgical Assistants (ABSA) or National Surgical Assistant Association (NSAA) within two years of entering Surgical Assistant role.

• If previous experience as a Surgical Assistant, a two-year timeframe to complete a bridge to CAAHEP process will be allowed, granted a Surgical Assistant program has been completed previously.

Specialized Knowledge:

Gains expert knowledge regarding anatomy and physiology, surgical techniques, and tissue dissection and retraction throughout SFA Program, including expert knowledge of tissue handling, suture, suturing techniques and all layers of wound closure.

Kind and Length of Experience:

1-year clinical experience as a Certified Surgical Technician.

FLSA Status:

Non-Exempt

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