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Job Summary
To provide technical support in the care and preparation of patients undergoing surgical procedures, functions as a member of the surgical team in the operating room. The First Assist provides a higher level of clinical skilled assistance to surgeons, such as hemostasis, exposure, and closure of skin incisions, as directed by the attending surgeon.
Accountabilities
Provides hemostasis for patients undergoing surgical procedures via techniques such as clamping of vessels or tissue, cauterizing of vessels or tissue, tying and/or ligating clamped vessels or tissue, applying hemostatic clips, applying local hemostatic agents, appropriately applying tourniquets with appropriate judgment based on knowledge of side effects of extended use.
Facilitates visualization of the operative site by appropriately placing and securing retractors with and without padding, packing with sponges, providing digital manipulation of tissue, suctioning, irrigating, or sponging, manipulating suture materials, and properly using body mechanics to prevent obstruction of the attending surgeon's view. Anticipates exposure needs based on knowledge of the attending surgeon's preference, procedure, and anatomical structures.
Drapes and prepares patients in appropriate manner, per the directive of the attending surgeon, in preparation of surgical procedures to include providing necessary hair removal, positioning patients to avoid points of pressure, nerve impairment, or circulation impairment, properly and safely utilizing positioning aids in positioning the patient, and safely moving the patient.
Closes surgical incisions through suturing and other wound-closing procedures. Sutures incisions with basic and advanced knot techniques, one-handed and two-handed techniques, and deep tying technique to securely tie off deep structures without damaging tissue or losing control of vessels. Applies skin staples appropriately, approximating the skin to best facilitate the healing process. Selects and applies wound dressing materials with appropriate absorbency and adhesive qualities, immobilizing dressing and incision sites.
Injects medications, per direction of the attending surgeon, demonstrating proper knowledge of local and other medications.
Manipulates, dissects, and removes human tissue as required during surgical procedures.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Minimum Education
Completion of a surgical technology program.
Completion of a CAAHEP accredited (Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs) surgical assistant program.
Required Certifications/Registrations/Licenses
Holds active NBSTSA (National Board of Surgical Technology & Surgical Assisting) certification as a CST or NCCT (National Center for Competency Testing) certification as a TS-C.
Also holds a CSFA (Certified Surgical First Assistant) from NBSTSA or a CSA (Certified Surgical Assistant) from NCCSA (National Commission for the Certification of Surgical Assistants).
In Lieu of
In lieu of completion of a surgical technology program only, must be current with mandatory 15 hours annually of ST continuing education AND either have been employed as a ST in S.C. prior to Jan. 1, 2008, OR have completed a ST military training program.
Other Job Requirements
Completes 15 hours of mandatory ST education annually- Required
Maintains surgical technology and surgical assist certifications - Required
Work Shift
Variable (United States of America)
Location
Greenville Memorial Med Campus
Facility
1008 Greenville Memorial Hospital
Department
10086160 Operating Room
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