Operating Room Surgical Technologist

Mercyhealth•Riverside, IL

About The Position

The Operating Room Surgical Technologist handles the instruments, supplies, and equipment needed during surgical procedures. The role requires understanding the procedure being performed, anticipating the surgeon’s needs, supporting quality patient care, and maintaining the sterile field. The technologist assists the surgical team before, during, and after surgery, helps prepare the operating room between procedures, and participates in department performance-improvement activities. The position may include directly supervising or mentoring up to one surgical technician student. When serving as a preceptor, the technologist supports the student’s learning and development in accordance with hospital and school policies, acting as an educator, role model, and resource.

Requirements

Graduate of a CAAHEP-accredited Surgical Technology program, or a program currently participating in the accreditation process.
Less than one year of experience as a Surgical Scrub technologist.
Approved CPR or BLS certification required within 90 days; other certifications may be required according to unit requirements.

Nice To Haves

High school diploma or GED preferred.
Certified Surgical Technologist certification through NBSTSA preferred.

Responsibilities

Check instruments, supplies, and equipment needed for surgical procedures.
Scrub, gown, and glove, and set up the sterile table with the instruments, supplies, equipment, medications, and solutions needed for each procedure.
Assist with patient placement and positioning on the operating table.
Assist with draping the sterile field according to the procedure and physician preference.
Perform required sponge, needle, and instrument counts with the circulator before the operation and before incision closure.
Gown and glove the surgeon and assistants.
Create and maintain the sterile field and uphold sterile technique during the procedure.
Pass instruments and other items to the surgeon during procedures.
As directed by the surgeon, sponge the operative site, hold retractors, cut suture, and cauterize previously clamped vessels.
Prepare sterile dressings and, when applicable and directed by the surgeon, apply and secure them.
Assist team members with cleaning the operating room after each procedure and prepare the room for the next patient.
Participate in department performance-improvement activities.
When serving as a preceptor, guide and support a surgical technician student’s learning by sharing knowledge, providing options and feedback, and helping the student identify and work through problems.