Surgical Technologist (7059)
About The Position
The Surgical Technologist assists with operating room preparation and provides assigned support during operative procedures. The role includes maintaining the sterile field and supplies, assisting with patient preparation and positioning, and scrubbing in as a second or third assistant when directed. The technologist works under the direct supervision of an RN for assigned scrubbing and assisting duties and helps ensure procedures proceed safely and without unnecessary delays. The position also involves supporting the surgical team, maintaining aseptic technique, completing counts with the RN, preparing dressings and specimens, participating in resuscitation procedures, and helping with postoperative room cleanup and restocking. The Surgical Technologist maintains required records, follows departmental policies and patient-safety practices, completes required training, cares for equipment and supplies, and may assist in orienting new staff and students. Other duties may be assigned or required.
Requirements
- High school education or equivalent.
- At least one year of experience.
- Experience in patient care obtained through completion of an ORT or surgical technology program, or related experience.
- Current CPR/Basic Life Support certification.
- Meet Tennessee surgical-technologist qualification requirements: maintain 15 continuing education credits annually unless exempt as a certified surgical technologist, in which case active certification must be maintained.
- Meet at least one of the stated Tennessee qualification pathways: hold certification as a Certified Surgical Technologist through NBSTSA or NCCT; complete a CAAHEP-accredited surgical technology program; complete an appropriate surgical-technologist training program in the armed forces or at a CAAHEP-accredited hospital or ambulatory surgical treatment center; successfully complete the NBSTSA certifying exam; or qualify for grandfathering under the specified Tennessee statute.
Responsibilities
- Prepare the operating room and check supplies, instrumentation, and equipment to ensure they are available and working properly.
- Provide and maintain the sterile field, linen, supplies, and instruments needed for scheduled procedures.
- Assist with patient preparation, operative-site preparation, draping, and positioning.
- Scrub and assist circulators under the direct supervision of an RN, including preparing and draping the operative site as needed.
- Assist the surgical team during procedures as assigned, maintaining aseptic technique and anticipating patient and supply needs.
- Scrub in as a second or third assistant when directed.
- Count sponges and sharps with the RN before surgery and before incision closure.
- Prepare sterile dressings and assist with applying dressings and casts.
- Assist with preparing operative specimens for analysis and participate in resuscitation procedures.
- Participate in postoperative operating-room cleanup and restock the surgical area.
- Communicate surgeon preferences to the RN circulator or appropriate staff and document or update preference cards.
- Maintain required departmental records, reports, and files.
- Follow organization and department policies, procedures, objectives, compliance requirements, quality-improvement practices, risk-management practices, infection-control practices, and patient-safety practices.
- Complete required continuing training and education, including department-specific requirements.
- Assist with department equipment care and maintenance, use supplies cost-effectively, and report equipment malfunctions to a supervisor.
- Assist in orienting new staff members and students who provide patient care, treatment, and services as part of training.
- Perform other duties as assigned or required.
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What This Job Offers
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
Associate degree
