Certified Surgical First Assist

• The Certified Surgical First Assistant is responsible for providing surgical scrub on minor and major surgical procedures dependent on individual competencies. The Certified Surgical First Assistant will provide aid in exposure, hemostasis, closure, and other intraoperative technical functions that help the surgeon carry out a safe operation with optimal results for the patient. In addition to intraoperative duties, the Certified Surgical First Assistant also performs preoperative and postoperative duties to better facilitate proper patient care as directed by their supervisor. The Certified Surgical First Assistant performs the aforementioned functions under the direction and supervision of the surgeon and in accordance with hospital policy and appropriate laws and regulations.

• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Under the direct supervision of a Registered Nurse/MD sets up and maintains a sterile field for minor and major surgical procedures applying special knowledge of asepsis. Applies specialized knowledge of instrumentation, equipment, and supplies utilized in the Operating Room.
• Follows appropriate guidelines for setting up sterile field and instruments for designated procedures.
• Maintains current knowledge of procedures performed in the Operating Room.
• Assumes responsibility for the efficient management of surgical cases assigned under the direct supervision of a Registered Nurse.
• Applies knowledge of principles of surgical sepsis required for the surveillance of the Operating Room suite environment.
• Provides assistance with pre-operative preparation of the patient to include, but not limited to: proper positioning, draping, pre-operative injection of the surgical site. Providing visualization of the operative site by the following: placement and securing of retractors, packing with sponges, digital manipulation of tissue, suctioning, irrigating, manipulation of suture materials, and proper use of body mechanics to prevent obstruction of the surgeon's view.
• Utilizing appropriate techniques to assist with hemostasis: clamping and/or cauterizing vessels or tissue, tying and/or ligating clamped vessels or tissue, applying hemostatic clips, placing local hemostatic agents.
• Applying tourniquets and demonstrating awareness of the indications/contraindications for use with knowledge of side effects of extended use, applying vessel loops, applying noncrushing clamps, and applying direct digital pressure.
• Utilizes appropriate sterilization and decontamination techniques in the maintenance of equipment and supplies. Utilizes appropriate body mechanics in moving and lifting patients and equipment to prevent injury to patients and to self. Re-stocks Operating Room supplies as caseload permits.
• Assist staff with set up and tear down of surgical cases.
• Participates in a rotational call system as needed to provide for continuous availability of patient services.

• Associates Degree.
• 2 - 4 years related experience.

• Surgical First Assistant Certification.
• BLS Certification.

Last updated on Oct 30, 2023