Surgical Services Technician Apprentice

TERM

This is a competency-based program, therefore completion of the on-the-job learning of these work processes as listed below will occur after the apprentice has demonstrated mastery of each competency and successfully completed related instruction.

ON-THE-JOB LEARNING

Apprentices will receive training in the work experience as listed below.  The average apprentice coming into this training with no previous experience may take approximately 1-2 years to master the competencies.  Credit may be given for previous experience and education. 

JOB SUMMARY

To maintain the sterile field in the operating room, being constantly vigilant to see that proper aseptic techniques are utilized to prevent contamination and infection.  To assist the surgical team as the sterile member who passes instruments, sutures and sponges during surgery.  Provides care for patients and families as delegated by the nurse in accordance with the appropriate minimum standard of care.  Prepares and sterilizes all equipment used within the operating room and gastroenterology room.  Assists MD and RN with gastroenterology procedures and assists RN with pre and post procedure tasks as delegated.

MAJOR JOB FUNCTION

1. Before each surgical procedure, helps prepare the operating room by gathering the surgical instruments, equipment, and supplies needed for the procedure. Prepares and organizes the sterile table while maintaining a sterile field.  Prepares endoscopy room for gastroenterology procedures.
2. Scrubs hands and arms, puts on sterile operating room attire to be able to work within the sterile field established around the patient and to handle the sterilized instruments, equipment and supplies used in the procedure. 
3. During procedures supports the surgeon by passing instruments and sterile supplies, maintaining a sterile field, holding retractors, cutting sutures, collecting specimens, and applying dressings as directed. Anticipates the needs of the surgeon.
4.  Checks, audits, and operates equipment such as surgical lights, suction machines, electrosurgical units, laparoscopic, robotic, orthopedic, and endoscopy equipment. Notifies manager or CS Coordinator of equipment maintenance needs.

Cleans and restocks the operating room and gastroenterology room.

a. Performs decontamination, sterilization and repackaging of supplies used throughout the department and hospital.  Sterilization equipment includes but is not limited to autoclaves, washer disinfector, ultrasonic, and Sterrad.

1. Processes all used equipment daily.
2. Checks all supplies for proof of sterilization prior to use.

1. Demonstrates proficiency in regards to the computer documentation of patient cares and any other related computerized patient information/documentation.
2. Provides age-appropriate care for all age groups.

1. Anticipates potential adverse changes in patient care and notifies RN.
2. Interacts effectively with patients.
3. Maintains safety of patients.

1. Performs all other duties as assigned.

1. Participates in the orientation and education of others.
2. Assists physician, physician assistant or RN with administering medication.
3. Assists with monthly outdates and cleaning

STANDARDS OF BEHAVIOR

1. WORK ETHICS STANDARD: Affirm a commitment to making the Tomah Health work environment better through: patient advocacy, continuing education, and valuation of each individual person.
2. COMMUNICATION STANDARD: Affirm a commitment to use open and honest communication with all Tomah Health customers (in-house & community-wide) through: basic customer courtesy (phone, written, face to face) and active listening.
3. TEAMWORK STANDARD: Affirm a commitment to be a proud, dependable Tomah Health TEAM member through: basic customer courtesy, patient advocacy, flexibility, and valuation of each individual person.
4. QUALITY STANDARD: Affirm a commitment to provide respectful, compassionate, quality care with integrity to all Tomah Health customers (in-house & community-wide) through: job excellence, patient advocacy, and self-dignity.
5. PROFESSIONALISM STANDARD: Affirm a commitment to professional conduct towards all Tomah Health customers (in-house & community-wide) through: collaboration, teamwork, appearance, environment, and valuation of each individual person.
6. ATTITUDE STANDARD: Affirm a commitment to maintain a positive, professional perspective towards all Tomah Health customers (in-house & community-wide) through: honest feedback, confidentiality, basic customer courtesy, and valuation of each individual person.

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

1. High school diploma required.
2. Current certification or eligibility to become BLS certified.

QUALIFICATIONS/SKILLS

1. Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
2. Excellent human relation skills as demonstrated by the ability to interface positively with all customers and employees.
3. Must have a high energy level with ability to work under the stress of the operating room atmosphere and exhibit emotional maturity, stability and flexibility.
4. Must have proficient computer skills with the ability to operate within a Windows environment.
5. Needs to possess a high level of intelligence, integrity, sense of responsibility and ability to comprehend and analyze details.
6. Ability to operate and handle many kinds of complex equipment.
7. Ability to demonstrate clinical competence and maintain current knowledge in caring for infant through geriatric patients.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

1. Frequently required to stand, walk and reach with hands and arms.  Required to sit, climb or balance, stoop, kneel or crouch.
2. Must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
3. Ability to respond appropriately to changing staffing conditions.  Demonstrated ability to make independent judgments in times of need along with the ability to seek guidance and/or support from appropriate resources.
4. Full range of body motion and flexibility is required on a daily basis.
5. Good hearing is necessary to receive detailed information through oral communication and to verify visual and audio alarms on machines.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Must understand and accept the possibility of exposure to inside environmental conditions, such as infectious/communicable diseases, noise, blood and bloodborne diseases, chemicals and/or chemical fumes, odors, gases, and dusts.  Must be able to function effectively under stressful situations.  Environment is climate controlled.