SURGICAL TECH/FIRST ASSISTANT/OPEN HEART

The Surgical Technologist/First Assistant/Open Heart Team, under supervision, provides technical patient care to all ages, according to a plan of care established by a team of professionals coordinated by the Registered Nurse.

T he Surgical Technologist/First Assistant/Open Heart Team demonstrates excellent customer service performance in that his/her attitude and actions are at all times consistent with the standards contained in the Vision, Mission and Values of Covenant HealthCare, and the commitment to Extraordinary Care for Every Generation

Performs duties as directed by Cardiac Surgeons.

I nforms the RN of any/all pertinent information regarding changes in patient’s condition or surgeon’s needs.

D emonstrates interpersonal skills in dealing with patients, families, and co-workers.

C ommunicates supply inventory needs to RN/Supply Coordinator.

M aintains clean and orderly patient/unit environment.

L abels and reports any malfunctioning instruments.

P erforms departmental projects as needed.

P rovides direct/indirect patient care as directed by RN, surgeon, anesthesiologist and/or CRNA.

A ctively participates in patient outcome activities and continuing education activities.

U pdates and maintains knowledge, skills, and competencies related to area of practice.

A dheres to unit/department policies, procedures, and unit structure standards.

M aintains confidentiality in relation to patient/family, and the organization.

A ctively participates in training/orientation of students and new staff.

P erforms duties as directed by Cardiac Surgeons.

R esponsibilities as a scrub person:

C hecks supplies and equipment needed for surgical procedure.

S ets up sterile table with instruments, supplies, equipment and medication/solutions as appropriate.

P erforms appropriate counts with RN according to standard.

G owns and gloves surgeons and assistants.

H elps in draping sterile field.

P asses instruments, etc., to surgeon during procedure.

R eports break in sterile technique.

M aintains highest standard of sterile techniques during procedure.

P repares sterile dressings and applies as directed by surgeon.

C leans and prepares instruments for terminal sterilization as needed.

A ssists other members of team with terminal cleaning of room.

A ssists in preparing room for next patient.

R esponsibilities as an assistant:

M ay sponge operative site, hold retractors and cut sutures as directed by surgeon.

M ay cauterize previously clamped vessels as directed by surgeon.

M ay remove clamps from vessel after cauterized or tied by surgeon.

M ay assist with staple insertion for wound closure.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

H igh School Graduate or equivalent Certified First Assistant, graduate from Surgical First Assistant Program or On-The-Job experience to meet criteria established , eligible for certification or RN with current Michigan license. Current Surgical Technologist with 5 yrs. Experience. BLS certification Preferred certification for Surgical Technologist. OR experience as a Surgical Tech Understanding of the Cardiovascular System through On-The-Job training or formal courses in anatomy and physiology

K NOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES Strong knowledge of surgical instrumentation. (Examination, identification, care and assembly)

W orking knowledge of the sterilization process.

W orking knowledge of a Case Cart system.

U nderstanding sterile techniques and operating room protocol. Strong organization skills and attention to detail.

E xcellent problem solving and analytical skills.

S trong Customer Service skills.

S trong Communication skills.

A bility to work either independently or in a group.

A bility to resolve problems effectively.

A bility to motivate and precept new employees.

W ORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL DEMANDS Ability to maintain punctual attendance consistent with ADA, FMLA, and other federal, state, and local standards.

C onstant standing Frequent lifting up to 25 lbs.

F requent carrying, stooping, twisting, reaching, handling, feeling, talking, hearing, near vision, midrange vision, far vision, depth perception, visual accommodation, color vision, and field of vision

O ccasional lifting up to 50 lbs. Occasional walking, sitting, pushing, pulling, climbing, balancing, crouching, and squatting