Job Description

Job Description

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Job Type:

Regular

Scheduled Hours:

40

Job Summary:

Under the supervision of the surgeon, assists the surgeon during surgical procedures with tissue dissection and retraction, maintenance of hemostasis, tissue handling, and all layers of wound closure during surgical procedures. Prepares for surgical procedures by anticipating and obtaining necessary supplies, instruments, and equipment. Applies technical skills and scientific principles as a Surgical Assistant/Certified Surgical Assistant.

Demonstrate respect, dignity, kindness and empathy in each encounter with all patients, families, visitors and other employees regardless of cultural background.

Job Description:

Professional and Technical Skills

• Demonstrates knowledge of surgical procedures, anatomy/physiology. Provides assistance to the surgeon with retraction/support of tissues and tying, suturing and closure of surgical wound (fascia, subcutaneous and skin).
• Assists in maintenance of hemostasis by direct pressure, use/application of appropriate surgical instruments, placement of ties/ligatures, application of chemical hemostatic agents, or other measures as directed by the surgeon.
• Under direct supervision of the surgeon, demonstrates knowledge/use of electrosurgical/bipolar pen.
• Under the direct supervision of the surgeon, identifies anatomical landmarks, clamps, ligates, and dissects tissue as deemed necessary for surgical procedures.
• Under the direct supervision of the surgeon, removes vein from the appropriate donor site for open heart surgery; and dissects the common femoral artery for vascular surgical procedures, as needed.
• Respects the patient’s ethnic origin, spiritual beliefs, and the right to privacy and confidentiality.
• Appropriately prioritizes multiple tasks simultaneously. Performs other duties as assigned.
• Ensures ongoing personal growth and development.
• Demonstrates knowledge of aseptic techniques.
• Obtains supplies and equipment for surgical procedures based on the needs of the patient/surgeon/ anesthesia provider. 
• Assists in preparation for surgical procedures, including cleaning of room, equipment, and instrumentation. Assists the circulating nurse (RN) as directed by the circulating nurse (RN).

Patient Safety

• Under the direction of the RN, demonstrates knowledge of appropriate labeling and maintaining medication on the sterile field.
• Performs the initial/baseline sponge, needle, sharps and instrument counts with the RN. Performs consecutive sponge, needle, sharps and instrument counts with the RN.
• Maintains a safe environment for optimal patient outcomes.

Quality/Customer Service

• Demonstrates excellent customer service skills in dealing with patients, visitors, and health care team members.
• Participates in performance improvement activities.
• Demonstrates effective communication skills through active listening, effective verbal and written communications, and prompt response to issues/concerns.
• Maintains professional certification.

Financial Accountability

• Demonstrates fiscal accountability by efficient cost-effective utilization of equipment/supplies based on the needs of the patient/surgeon/anesthesia provider.

On-Call Responsibilities

• Responds in the required time frame for emergent surgical cases and is prepared and ready within the required time frame.

Performs other duties as assigned.

Education, Credentials, Licenses:

Graduate of a Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) accredited Surgical Assistant program.*

Current Certification as Surgical Assistant by National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA), American Board of Surgical Assistants (ABSA) or National Surgical Asst Association (NSSA).

If working in Kentucky, the Kentucky Certified Surgical Assistant (KCSA) is required.* 

*Newly hired associates with 10 or more years of experience as a Certified Surgical Assistant will receive two years from date of hire to attain their CAAHEP bridge and KCSA, but must be certified as Surgical Assistant from NBSTSA or NSSA at time of hire.

Specialized Knowledge:  

Expert knowledge regarding anatomy and physiology, surgical techniques, and tissue dissection and retraction. Expert knowledge of tissue handling, suture, suturing techniques and all layers of wound closure.

Kind and Length of Experience:  

1 year clinical experience as a surgical assistant.

FLSA Status:

Non-Exempt

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