SURGICAL TECHNOLOGIST

Description

JOB SUMMARY: The Surgical Technologist will assist the surgeon at the sterile field by providing appropriate and adequate sterile instruments and other supplies during the operative procedures. Maintains the surgical field through aseptic practices. Works under the supervision of the Surgery Team Leader as a member of the perioperative team. Assists in the nursing care and preparation of the surgical patient for surgery and performs routine and delegated duties according to the standards of practice and policies of the facility and department. Facilitates and demonstrates cooperative behavior with colleagues and supervisors at all times.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
The Scrub Tech:

1. Is responsible for the setting up and performance of surgical cases by assembly of equipment and supplies according to physician preference
cards.

2. Is responsible for the setting up and performance of surgical cases by opening sterile pack, supplies, and instruments according to sterile technique.

3. Prepares sterile field, including sponge, needle, and instrument counts when needed. Ensures the sterility of supplies and instrumentations used during
operative procedures.

4. Works cooperatively in the clean up of the operating room following surgery, including the proper disposal of used supplies and sharps, the cleaning and
decontamination of instruments, equipment and operating room.

5. Handles specimens according to proper procedure.

6. May act as an assistant to the circulating nurse in preparing the patient for surgery, positioning the patient in the appropriate position, and moving the
patient to and from operating table. Assists the circulator in other duties as directed.

7. Demonstrates understanding and utilization of principles of asepsis in all duties.

8. Uses supplies conservatively and efficiently.

9. During surgical procedures:
a. Passes instruments to the surgeon and the assistant.
b. Is attentive to the operative area by being alert for breaks in technique.
c. Maintains an attitude of willingness to assist with the surgical procedure.
d. Is aware of the location of all instruments, needles, sponges, and specimens.
e. May staple, as directed by the surgeon, after the surgeon has approximated the tissue.

10. When requested by a Surgeon, will utilize appropriate techniques as instructed by the requesting Surgeon, appropriate to the Surgical Technologist competency level, may assist with manipulation or reinsertion of Laparoscopic trocars and suturing/stapling of skin under the indirect observation of the surgeon. Training will be by the surgeon with acknowledgment of ability by the Surgeon.
a. In order for a Surgical Technologist IV to perform these procedures, he/she is required to have a surgeon sign an acknowledgment of ability form. The Surgical Technologist can only perform these procedures under the indirect observation the operating surgeon.
b. Will close skin with method indicated by surgeon (suture, staples, etc.) with dressing of incision appropriate to Surgeons guidelines.
c. Facial skin suturing will not be allowed.
d. May manipulate and reinsert Laparoscopic trocars. The initial insertion must be done by the surgeon.
e. May staple, as directed by the surgeon, after the surgeon has approximated the tissue.
11. Assists the circulator with responsibilities for intra-operative safety related to infection control, prevention of exposure to blood-borne pathogens, and handling hazardous material.
12. Prepares soiled instruments for cleaning. Assists as needed in the decontamination and reprocessing of instruments.
13. Works cooperatively with other staff in putting unused supplies and equipment away and restocking rooms.
14. Adheres to and practices Mountain View Hospital Compliance Program and participates in Performance Improvement activities.
15. Performs on-call duties for emergency surgeries during after-duty-hours and on weekends on a rotating basis.
16. Maintains professional competency through appropriate continuing education.
17. Is fully knowledgeable of policies and procedures specific to the department of surgical services.
18. Performs job duties in agreement with AST Standards of Practice.
19. Assists with any other duties as deemed necessary.
20. Clinic responsibilities as necessary.
21. Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education: Graduate of an accredited Surgical Technology Program. Certification as a Surgical Technologist is preferred.

Experience: Preferred, but not required.

Equipment/Technology: Basic computer knowledge

Language/Communication: Must have the ability to effectively read, write, and speak English.

Mathematical Skills: General High School knowledge

Mental Capabilities: Ability to work in a fast-paced environment. Can adapt to rapidly changing workloads due to changes in the surgery census. Can frequently and consistently make sound judgments.

Interpersonal: Works well with others.

Performance: Can work well under pressure and meet multiple and competing deadlines.