Surgical Tech First Assist

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Job Summary

To provide technical support in the care and preparation of patients undergoing surgical procedures, functions as a member of the surgical team in the operating room. The First Assist provides a higher level of clinical skilled assistance to surgeons, such as hemostasis, exposure, and closure of skin incisions, as directed by the attending surgeon.

Accountabilities

Provides hemostasis for patients undergoing surgical procedures via techniques such as clamping of vessels or tissue, cauterizing of vessels or tissue, tying and/or ligating clamped vessels or tissue, applying hemostatic clips, applying local hemostatic agents, appropriately applying tourniquets with appropriate judgment based on knowledge of side effects of extended use.

Facilitates visualization of the operative site by appropriately placing and securing retractors with and without padding, packing with sponges, providing digital manipulation of tissue, suctioning, irrigating, or sponging, manipulating suture materials, and properly using body mechanics to prevent obstruction of the attending surgeon's view.  Anticipates exposure needs based on knowledge of the attending surgeon's preference, procedure, and anatomical structures.

Drapes and prepares patients in appropriate manner, per the directive of the attending surgeon, in preparation of surgical procedures to include providing necessary hair removal, positioning patients to avoid points of pressure, nerve impairment, or circulation impairment, properly and safely utilizing positioning aids in positioning the patient, and safely moving the patient.  

Closes surgical incisions through suturing and other wound-closing procedures.  Sutures incisions with basic and advanced knot techniques, one-handed and two-handed techniques, and deep tying technique to securely tie off deep structures without damaging tissue or losing control of vessels. Applies skin staples appropriately, approximating the skin to best facilitate the healing process.  Selects and applies wound dressing materials with appropriate absorbency and adhesive qualities, immobilizing dressing and incision sites.

Injects medications, per direction of the attending surgeon, demonstrating proper knowledge of local and other medications.

Manipulates, dissects, and removes human tissue as required during surgical procedures.

Performs other duties as assigned.

Supervisory/Management Responsibilities

This is a non-management job that will report to a supervisor, manager, director or executive.

Minimum Education

Successful completion of an accredited educational program for surgical technologists or appropriate surgical technologist training in the U.S. Armed Forces.

Required Certifications/Registrations/Licenses

Surgical First Assist or Certified First Assist.

BLS certification required.

Other Required Experience

Demonstrated knowledge of human anatomy and physiology as it relates to surgical procedures is required.  Must be able to properly handle surgical instruments and tools.  Must be able to quickly analyze critical situations during  surgical procedures and take appropriate action within the scope of the First Assist role as approved by the attending surgeon.

Work Shift

Day (United States of America)

Location

Oconee Medical Campus

Facility

Oconee Memorial Hospital

Department

Operating Room

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