Surgical First Assistant

Community Health Systems•Oro Valley, AZ

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Surgical Assistant supports the surgical team by preparing the operating room, assisting with patient preparation, and providing technical support during surgical procedures under the supervision of the surgical team. This role performs basic operative assistance such as handling instruments, maintaining sterile technique, positioning patients, and assisting with room turnover. The Surgical Assistant works closely with surgeons, nurses, and anesthesia staff to ensure a safe and efficient surgical environment. Essential functions include assisting with operating room setup, preparing and positioning patients for surgery, passing instruments and supplies to the surgical team, maintaining a sterile field, assisting with surgical site cleanup and room turnover, supporting patient safety and comfort, collaborating with team members, checking and stocking supplies, demonstrating knowledge of basic surgical instruments, sterile technique, and surgical safety protocols, and following hospital policies, procedures, and regulatory guidelines.

Requirements

0-2 years of experience in a surgical, sterile processing, or patient care support role
Basic understanding of surgical procedures and aseptic technique.
Ability to follow verbal and written instructions in a fast-paced clinical environment.
Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work well within a collaborative surgical team.
Reliable, detail-oriented, and able to maintain focus during routine and complex procedures.
CPR - Cardiac Pulmonary Resuscitation required
BCLS - Basic Life Support required

Nice To Haves

1-2 years of experience supporting perioperative services or working in a surgical setting
Knowledge of surgical instrumentation and OR safety protocols is preferred.
CST - Certified Surgical Technologist preferred

Responsibilities

Assists with operating room setup, ensuring surgical instruments, supplies, and equipment are available and sterile prior to procedures.
Prepares and positions patients for surgery, assisting with transport, prepping, and draping according to established protocols.
Passes instruments and supplies to the surgical team during procedures, maintaining aseptic technique and anticipating surgical needs.
Maintains a sterile field and assists with infection prevention practices throughout the surgical procedure.
Assists with surgical site cleanup and room turnover between procedures, ensuring readiness for the next case.
Supports the care team in monitoring patient safety and comfort during surgical preparation and recovery.
Collaborates with team members, responding to direction from the circulating nurse, scrub tech, or surgeon to support workflow.
Checks and stocks supplies in the OR or procedure areas, ensuring availability and readiness of surgical materials.
Demonstrates knowledge of basic surgical instruments, sterile technique, and surgical safety protocols.
Follows hospital policies, procedures, and regulatory guidelines, ensuring patient confidentiality and safety.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Maintains regular and reliable attendance.
Complies with all policies and standards.