Surgical Technologist

Applies learned principles in Surgical Technology to coordinate activities directed at assisting the surgical team in the implementation of care.  Works closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, Registered Nurses, and other surgical personnel delivering patient care before, during and after surgery.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Prepares room in a timely manner with all anticipated instruments, sutures, supplies and equipment for each individual surgical procedure.
• Adapts procedures to meet individual needs of pediatric, adolescent, adult and geriatric patients for treatment.
• Checks all equipment/instruments needed, prior to each procedure to ensure proper functioning.
• Follows aseptic technique, when opening sterile supplies and setting up procedures. Carries out medical/surgical asepsis during treatments/procedures.
• Assists in positioning, prepping and draping of patients for surgical procedures.
• Accurately completes operating room counts (instruments, sponges, needles); follows proper procedure in the event of incorrect count; reports all discrepancies to circulating nurse and surgeon and/or corrects immediately.
• Always maintains an orderly and sterile instrument table for the purpose of efficiency.
• Anticipates needs of surgeon during intraoperative phase.
• Is fully responsible for care of instruments/equipment during intra-operative phase, including cleaning and processing of instruments, postoperatively.
• Demonstrates competence in care of specimens and accurately handles specimens at all times.
• Follows written procedures for steam sterilization; knows responsibilities and the necessity for chemical and biological monitoring.
• Protects patient’s sensitivities and right to privacy; closely observes patient with minimal disturbance.
• Maintains safe environment for patient, co-workers and self, per hospital policies and procedures.
• Interacts professionally with physicians and coworkers.
• Regularly collaborates with other members of the nursing team in order to maintain equipment and supplies for surgical procedures. Demonstrates an awareness of the need for cost containment and the economic use of patient supplies.
• Establishes and maintains effective communication and good working relationship with coworkers for the patient’s benefit.
• Makes decisions reflecting knowledge of facts and good judgment within the operating room technician’s scope of practice.
• Makes decisions reflecting knowledge of assigned case and instruments and/or trays to be pulled for the procedure.
• Actively participates in Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) activities.
• Contributes to the 24-hour coverage of the operating room for emergency surgery.
• Performs any other assigned duties.

QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS:

EXPERIENCE

• One yr. Experience as a surgical technician desirable; clinical experience in a healthcare facility

EDUCATION

• High School diploma, new hires after Jan. 1, 2015 - Graduate of a nationally accredited Surgical Technology Program

LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS

• Understanding of aspectic technique and infection control. Basic understanding of anatomy, physiology and medical terminology

OTHER

• BLS Certification; certification as a Surgical Technologist preferred.
• Flexibility to be assigned to Health Alliance facilities as needed.
• New Hires after Jan. 1, 2015 must obtain Certification within one year of graduation.
• All Surgical Technicians must obtain 15 CEUs per year.