About The Position

The Surgical First Assistant (SFA) assists surgeons with exposure, hemostasis, and other technical functions that will help the surgeon carry out a safe operation with optimal results for the patient. Under the direct supervision of a Registered Nurse, the SFA attends to the patients’ direct care needs and accepts responsibility for maintaining compliance with policies. The SFA anticipates the needs of the surgeon and other team members during surgical procedures, demonstrating and maintaining the dexterity necessary for successful completion of assistant duties. The role requires maintaining a professional attitude towards the dignity, privacy, and safety of the patient, functioning within the limits of ability and the scope of practice set forth by medical staff bylaws and state law. The SFA performs surgical assisting functions under the direction of a licensed physician, assists with the preparation of the operating room, and participates in end-of-case activities. Responsibilities include draping the patient, maintaining a sterile field, providing retraction of tissue, assisting in hemostasis, performing sponging and suctioning, and applying wound dressings, among other duties.

Requirements

  • Knowledge and proficiency in perioperative practices as a Surgical Technologist for at least three years.
  • Demonstrated knowledge and skill in applying principles of asepsis and infection control.
  • Knowledge of surgical anatomy, physiology, and operative procedures.
  • Demonstrated clinical dexterity to perform identified skills.
  • Knowledge to identify hazards and implement corrective actions for patient safety.
  • Technical School/2 Years College / Associate’s Degree in Surgical Technology or program board eligible for SFA certification.
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Science or related field with 3-5 years related experience (5-8 years preferred).

Nice To Haves

  • Currency in CSFA certification (through NBSTSA), CSA (through NSAA), or SA-C certification (through ABSA).
  • Maintains licensure as Surgical First Assistant where indicated by State Law.
  • Current American Heart Association BLS certification.

Responsibilities

  • Assists surgeons with exposure, hemostasis, and other technical functions during surgery.
  • Attends to patients’ direct care needs under the supervision of a Registered Nurse.
  • Anticipates the needs of the surgeon and other team members during surgical procedures.
  • Maintains a professional attitude towards the dignity, privacy, and safety of the patient.
  • Performs surgical assisting functions under the direction of a licensed physician.
  • Assists with preparation of the operating room and end-of-case activities.
  • Participates in draping the patient and maintaining a sterile field.
  • Provides retraction of tissue and organs for optimal visualization under direct supervision.
  • Assists in maintaining hemostasis by using appropriate surgical instruments and techniques.
  • Performs sponging and suctioning on operative sites.
  • Closes subcutaneous and skin wound layers under surgeon supervision.
  • May harvest vein grafts for cardiac procedures under the surgeon’s supervision.
  • Secures drainage systems to tissue and applies wound dressings.
  • Assists in moving and positioning patients safely to reduce injury.
  • Places pneumatic tourniquets and assists with CPR when needed.
  • Employs interpersonal and communication skills to enhance team functioning.
  • Complies with patient safety initiatives and participates in mandatory department education.
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