Surgical Technologist I

MyMichigan Health•Saginaw, MI

About The Position

The Surgical Technologist I works in the Operating Room, demonstrating knowledge of surgical procedures and standards of practice. The role ensures supplies and equipment are available, correctly assembled, and in working condition; verifies and prepares sterile instruments; anticipates the surgeon’s needs; maintains and monitors the sterile field; and keeps an accurate account of medications, sharps, instruments, and sponges. The Surgical Technologist I independently scrubs basic surgical procedures and must maintain operating room competency.

Requirements

Graduate of a surgical technology program accredited through CAAHEP, a military surgical technology program, or a certified Surgical Technology program, as applicable to the stated credential pathways.
Surgical Technologist I certification must be obtained within 6 months of hire or transfer; graduates awaiting their certification exam may apply.
Maintain BLS (Basic Life Support) certification within 1 month of hire; qualification source is AHA.
Independently scrub basic surgical procedures and maintain operating room competency.
Manual dexterity and mechanical skills sufficient to use and hold surgical instruments.
Interpersonal and communication skills to interact with individuals and groups at all levels and communicate ideas clearly.
Ability to wear personal protective equipment, including latex materials or an appropriate substitute if required.
Ability to move freely about the facility, with or without an assistive device, and perform the job functions described.
Vision and hearing adequate to perform the role, with or without assistive devices.
Ability to sit, stand, and walk for long periods and frequently change posture, including stooping, kneeling, or crouching.
Ability to handle multiple tasks, work independently, get along with others, maintain regular and predictable attendance, and stay awake.
Dexterity for handling, reaching, grasping, fingering, and feeling, potentially repeated regularly or frequently.
Follow MyMichigan Health bloodborne pathogen and TB testing requirements.
Meet the physical demands of the role: occasional lifting or carrying of 21–50 pounds; frequent handling of 20 pounds and/or walking, standing, or pushing/pulling arm or leg controls; and constant handling of 10 pounds.

Nice To Haves

Associate degree in Surgical Technology.
Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) certification.
Tech in Surgery–Certified (TS-C) certification for a surgical technologist who graduated with a certificate.

Responsibilities

Demonstrate knowledge of surgical procedures and problem-solve in relation to the procedure being performed.
Verify items on the physician preference card and ensure supplies are accounted for so accurate patient charges are billed.
Use, assemble, clean, and sterilize equipment and disposables appropriately.
Ensure equipment, supplies, and instruments are assembled correctly and in working condition for surgical procedures.
Maintain the sterile environment, monitor the sterile field, and recognize breaks in technique.
Set up the sterile field and instruments in a timely manner.
Keep an accurate account of medications, sponges, instruments, and sharps on the sterile field according to policy.
Demonstrate a positive, courteous, and helpful attitude toward patients, visitors, physicians, and coworkers.
Develop and maintain effective working relationships with interdisciplinary personnel to meet patient needs.
Remain calm and efficient in stressful situations.
Share information and report significant changes or abnormal findings to appropriate team members.
Participate in regulatory surveys and performance improvement activities.
Assist with orientation, ongoing competencies, education, and staff development.
Participate in professional association activities and programs to stay current on regulations, guidelines, and professional standards of care.
Stay current on developments by reading professional journals and attending seminars.
Fulfill on-call responsibilities and provide extra shift coverage as needed.
Perform other duties as assigned.