Surgical Tech First Assist (CERT) FT

UHS • McAllen, TX

87d

About The Position

The Surgical Technologist First Assistant (STFA) plays a crucial role in the operating room by assisting surgeons with various technical functions to ensure safe operations and optimal patient outcomes. Under the direct supervision of a Registered Nurse, the STFA attends to patients' direct care needs and is responsible for maintaining compliance with policies and procedures. The role requires anticipating the needs of the surgical team, demonstrating dexterity during procedures, and maintaining a professional attitude towards patient dignity and safety. The STFA performs surgical assisting functions under the direction of a licensed physician, prepares the operating room, participates in draping the patient, and maintains a sterile field. Responsibilities also include providing retraction of tissues, assisting in hemostasis, performing sponging and suctioning, and applying wound dressings. The STFA must demonstrate competency in patient care and actively participate in safety initiatives and department education.

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.
• Ability 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 operations.
• Attends to patients' direct care needs under the supervision of a Registered Nurse.
• Maintains compliance with policies and procedures.
• Anticipates the needs of the surgical team during procedures.
• Demonstrates dexterity for successful completion of assistant duties.
• Maintains a professional attitude towards patient dignity and safety.
• 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.
• Assists in maintaining hemostasis by various methods as directed by the surgeon.
• Performs sponging and suctioning on operative sites.
• Closes subcutaneous and skin wound layers under surgeon supervision.
• May harvest vein grafts for cardiac procedures under supervision.
• Secures drainage systems to tissue and applies wound dressings.
• Assists with moving and positioning patients to reduce injury.
• Places pneumatic tourniquets and assists with CPR when needed.
• Employs interpersonal skills to enhance team functioning.
• Complies with patient safety initiatives and Universal Protocol.
• May function in scrub role or other duties as identified by department leadership.
• Participates in mandatory department education and drills.
• Participates in facility call rotations.

What This Job Offers

• Education Level: Associate degree
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees