Surgical Technologist-OR - Main Operating Room

Job Description

Primary responsibility involves performance of specific tasks, as a scrub technologist and/or during surgical procedures to facilitate the efficient and safe progress of the surgical case. Assists with the maintenance of surgical instruments, supplies, and equipment. Maintains positive customer relations. Shall demonstrate competency and possess the technical skills appropriate for his/her assigned cases and utilizes that knowledge in assisting others. Performs various duties within his/her scope of responsibility and is accountable to the Clinical Manager.

• Checks daily assignment.
• Reviews surgical preference lists to clarify surgical routine and update preference lists as needed.
• Utilize resources to obtain needed supplies for the case.
• Checks table(s) for complete readiness for each procedure. Ensures all items needed for the case are present:
  • Obtains physician's special instruments and sutures prior to start of the case.
• Demonstrates knowledge and dexterity in handling of special supplies and equipment and assures its proper functioning. Is knowledgeable of the specifics of the surgical procedure and able to perform these tasks in an organized and efficient manner.
• Under the surgeon's supervision, assists with suctioning secretions, holding retractors, assisting with skin closure, cutting sutures and irrigating wounds.
• Circulates for operative procedures under supervision of R.N.
• At the end of procedure assist with site care
• Cleanses operative site.
• Connects drainage tubes to appropriate devices.
• Assists and/or applied sterile dressing.
• Assists with patient transfer to bed/stretcher.
• Covers soiled gloves with clean exam gloves.
• Assists with transfer with adequate number of assistants present.
• Responsible for knowing and using good body mechanics.
• Disassembles table(s) contents and instruments, and places in proper receptacles for cleaning.
• Sends (appropriate) instruments to CSR and/or clean up room for terminal cleaning.
• Functions as a Patient Advocate.
• Is aware of physical and emotional needs at all times and gives appropriate care and comfort.
• Will assist any patient in need, not just those assigned to his/her care.
• Protects patient's dignity while anesthetized by avoiding unnecessary exposure.
• Protects patient's privacy by insuring confidentiality of chart and history.
• Puts proper patients' welfare above person consideration; admits to errors and takes proper steps to correct.

• Ensures communication made to surgeon prior to the start of the case if any supplies and/or equipment are unavailable.
• Effectively communicates with all health team members in a timely and courteous manner.
• Shares pertinent information with Charge Nurse.
• Effectively communicates pertinent information to relief personnel so as to provide safe continuity of care.

• Attendance is prompt and regular.
• Supports self and peers in professional growth and development utilizing resources and opportunities within and outside of The Christ Hospital. Acts as a resource, educator and preceptor for staff and nursing students.
• Dress code of the Operating Room is followed.
• Volunteer’s assistance as a resource and/or preceptor in assigned areas.
• Assists in the orientation of new personnel.
• Participates in 75% of staff meetings and 75% of council meetings as appropriate. Participates in council activities and task forces to improve competencies of self, co-workers, and staff members related to patient care.
• Completes all educational requirements to maintain competency related to specific population of patient and/or regulatory agencies (Healthstream education 100% on-time completion and attendance for annual education day). Submits required tests and paperwork in a timely manner without management interventions.
• Participates in self and peer review activities to include the positive recognition of peers and staff on a regular basis.
• Participation in professional advancement program is encouraged.
• Prepares for certification specific to work area of professional practice when eligible.
• Participation in chosen professional organizations, conferences and research is encouraged.

• Assists in expediting case turnaround time.
• Assists with cleaning of tables, floors, etc.
• Demonstrates flexibility and adaptability to change.
• Takes only allotted time for breaks and lunch according to the policy.
• Understands factors related to cost and effective outcomes when planning and implementing patient care.
• Initiates care in a timely manner, manages workload effectively.
• Understands and maintains awareness of fiscal responsibility by utilizing staff, time, equipment, and supplies appropriately.

• Demonstrates, maintains, identifies, and corrects any breaks in aseptic technique while setting up the case as well as during the surgical procedure
• Instruments, sharps, and sponges are counted according to policy.
• Identifies and transfers surgical specimens according to O.R. policy.
• Performs safety check on all equipment (power…