Surgical Tech First Assistant

Under the direct supervision and direction of the Operating Surgeon, functions during the assisting Class I phase of role until the conclusion of the operative period. Functions concurrently as a scrub tech.

• Work Experience
  • Four years of OR Scrub experience with two years First Assistant experience required.
• Education
  • Completion of a Surgical Technology Program required.
• Certifications/Licensure
  • Certification as a Surgical Technologist required.
  • CFA or CSA certification required.

The duties listed below are a summary of the major essential functions of this position. The position may require other duties, both major and minor, that are not mentioned, and specific functions may change from time to time.

• Directs and assists in carrying out safe aseptic techniques and procedures. Observes and reports contamination and/or breaks in aseptic technique.
• Applies knowledge of surgical anatomy, physiology, and operative technique relative to operative procedures.
• Performs positioning, prepping, and draping of the patient and gowns and glove the Surgeon and assistant.
• Provides hemostasis by clamping blood vessels, coagulating bleeding points, ligating vessels, and by other means as directed by the surgeon.
• Provides exposure through appropriate use of instruments, retractors, suctioning, and sponging techniques.
• Handles tissues as directed by the surgeon, when making incisions and cutting the tissue.
• Performs wound closure as directed by the surgeon; sutures the peritoneum, fascia, subcutaneous tissue, and skin.
• Applies surgical dressings.
• Assists with the transfer of the patient from the operating room.
• Performs other Surgical Tech and Surgical Tech First Assistant Class II duties in their absence as stated in the Surgical Technician and Surgical Tech First Assistant Class II job descriptions.
• Participates in unit meetings, in-service education classes, committees as assigned, and orientation of new personnel to the unit.
• Maintains patient’s safety as defined in the Surgery Policy and Procedures and Nursing Policy and Procedures.
• Remains calm and follows directions well. Knows where emergency equipment is and how to use it.