CERTIFIED SURGICAL TECHNOLOGIST - ADVANCED ODESSA HOSPITAL AND CLINIC

Description

JOB SUMMARY

The Certified Surgical Technician is responsible for preparing the operating room and sterile field for surgical procedures by preparing sterile supplies, instruments, and equipment using sterile technique; anticipating the needs of the surgical team based on knowledge of human anatomy and pathophysiology, and how it relates to the surgical patient and procedure.

JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Performs scrub activities based on principles of aseptic technique, infection control, universal precautions guidelines, environmental control, and life safety guidelines.
• Anticipates needs of patient and surgeon in core area and call areas.
• Demonstrates critical thinking skills, ability to prioritize activities and integrate experiences across core area and call areas when performing the scrub role.
• Under supervision of the RN, demonstrates ability to prepare medications for procedures to be used by physician. 
• Knows of routine drugs used intra-operatively, dosages, and/or concentration and appropriate route of administration. 
• Prepares and knows the specific uses of equipment, instrumentation and supplies used for surgical procedures on assigned patients in core areas and call areas.
• Locates and operates equipment. Handles and operates equipment properly. 
• Initiates service request and reports to supervisor action taken when wear or malfunction of equipment occurs.       
• Performs scrub role, without assistance in core area, by locating supplies, equipment, and instruments.
• Prepares room utilizing preference cards and resource people to maintain competency level.
• Independently prepares the operating suite/sterile field for adolescent, adult, and geriatric patients for the intra-operative experience in core area.
• Differentiates and demonstrates knowledge of sterilization methods required for instruments or equipment.
• Implements and maintains preference cards in an updated complete form utilizing automated process and clinical information systems appropriately and efficiently.
• Understands and can perform sterilization of instruments and equipment according to AORN and manufacturer standards.  Cleans and prepares instruments for sterilization at completion of case.
• Restocks supplies and organizes case using preference card system.
• Demonstrates the spirit of the philosophy, mission, and values of the hospital through words and actions and implements them into departmental processes, programs, and the working environment.
• Applies the principles and values of customer service and continuous quality improvement while performing day to day activities of the position.
• Maintains and protects confidentiality regarding all aspects of patient care, personnel and strategic issues.  Adheres to Confidentiality Policy.
• Maintains positive working relationships and fosters cooperative work environment.  Adheres to the hospital’s Guidelines for Appropriate Conduct in the HR Manual.
• Displays honesty and mutual respect when communicating with peers and other departments.
• Follows through on problems that may compromise effective job performance by using appropriate chain of command.
• Adheres to safety practices and meets requirements of National Patient Safety Goals.
• Utilize concepts of age/developmental stages in interactions with patients and families.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

REQUIREMENTS

• Current certification as a Surgical Technician from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) or another recognized program.
• One (1) to three (3) Years Previous Surgery Experience in at least two (2) specialty areas preferred.
• Current BLS – American Heart Association

EDUCATION

• High School Diploma or GED
• Completion of Accredited school of Surgical Technology 

CERTIFICATION, LICENSURE

• Current certification as a Surgical Technician from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) or another recognized program.

KNOWLEDGE SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks, computer skills, effective oral and written skills, work in a team setting, work with frequent interruptions.