Job Description

QUALIFICATIONS

• High school graduate or equivalent required
• Current certification as a Surgical Technologist or Registered Nurse
• Successful completion of an accredited Surgical First Assist program and current certification as a CST-FA
• Minimum of 1 year work experience as a First Assist in a fast-paced OR. Previous CST-FA experience preferred
• BLS current at time of hire

OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE

Category I exposure to blood borne pathogens, frequent exposure to chemical hazards and may encounter radiation hazards.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• In addition to duties associated with the *certified surgical technician (CST) role, the CST-FA is responsible for the following key responsibilities:
  • Assist with patient positioning, prepping and draping as requested or required
  • Ensure all surgical instruments and equipment are available and properly prepared for surgical procedure
  • Provide exposure of the surgical site using retractors, sponges, and/or suction
  • Maintain hemostasis through clamping, cauterizing, ligating, and applying pressure
  • Anticipate the needs of the surgical team and respond promptly
  • Assist with wound closure using sutures, staples, or surgical adhesives
  • Apply wound dressings
  • Handle tissue specimens
  • Assist with transferring patient to recovery as needed
  • Demonstrate advanced surgical instrumentation handling
  • Perform tasks as delegated by the surgeon within the scope of the CST-FA
• Adheres to attendance, punctuality, meal and break time period policies
• Attends departmental meetings or document review of materials presented
• Adheres to patient confidentiality expectations
• Reports unsafe situations to supervisor and reports as needed through electronic variance system
• Demonstrates knowledge of and participation in hospital performance improvement, infection control and risk management programs
• Demonstrates knowledge of cultural, spiritual, and age-related considerations when interacting/caring for patients and coworkers

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• While performing the duties of this job the employee is frequently required to sit, converse, and listen; use hands to touch, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; and to reach with hands and arms. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.
• The employee must be able to lift and/or carry over 25 pounds on a regular basis and be able to push/pull over 25 pounds on a regular basis.
• The employee must be able to stand and/or walk at least five hours per day.