Surgical Assistant - OR

Carle Health•Urbana, IL

11d

About The Position

The Surgical Assistant functions as an integral part of the perioperative team, assisting the surgeon. When required, the role also functions as a first or second surgical technician or second circulator under the direct supervision of an RN. The position supports surgical procedures by maintaining asepsis and a sterile environment, assisting with patient positioning and room preparation, and providing intraoperative assistance such as suctioning, tying, camera holding, and retracting. The Surgical Assistant may perform skin closure, scrub as needed, precept others, and help coordinate supplies and equipment. The role also includes supporting patient care planning, maintaining a safe environment, operating autoclave sterilization units, charging for supplies and equipment, and assisting with room turnover.

Requirements

Associate's degree in Surgical Technology, or a certificate of completion in Surgical Technology, or qualifying experience in lieu of education.
Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from the American Heart Association within 30 days.
Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA) certification from the National Commission for the Certification of Surgical Assistants, or Licensed Surgical Assistant within 1 year from the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, or Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) certification within 1 year from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting.
At least 2 years of operating room scrub experience.

Responsibilities

Apply principles of asepsis to maintain a sterile environment during setup and surgical procedures.
Demonstrate technical and psychomotor skills, sound judgment, and appropriate knowledge in the role.
Provide age-specific care to obstetrical patients in accordance with department policies and procedures.
Organize and coordinate supplies and equipment to support an efficient and cost-effective department.
Initiate appropriate intraoperative behaviors unique to first assisting.
Maintain a safe environment for patients, coworkers, and self, adhering to hospital and unit safety, legal, and policy requirements.
Apply knowledge of normal and pathologic anatomy and physiology.
Perform scrubbing duties as needed, including classes for medical students, residents, and other students.
Perform preceptor duties.
Charge for equipment and supplies.
Assist the nurse in planning patient care.
Operate autoclave sterilization units.
Assist with room turnover.
Assist with supplies, equipment, and patient positioning for procedures.
Apply knowledge of closure techniques and perform closure of all layers of skin.
Assist surgeons during procedures, including suctioning, tying, camera holding, and retracting.