Surgical Technologist (Scrub Tech) - Surgery Department, PT

JOB SUMMARY

Works closely with the surgeons, anesthesia providers, and registered nurses to assure the delivery of safe quality age specific care to patients throughout the perioperative period. Facilitates the surgeon in the performance of invasive, therapeutic, and diagnostic procedures.  Functions in the role of scrub person.  Communicates and collaborates with other healthcare team members. Adheres to organizational policies and procedures; regulatory/ accrediting body requirements; and professional practice standards. Care will be provided to patients of all ages from neonate, infant, pediatric, adolescent, adult to geriatric.

EDUCATION AND WORK EXPERIENCE

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum of 3 years of surgery experience or graduate of an accredited surgical technology program required.
  • If no experience must have received Surgical Technologist certification.
• Current American Heart Association (AHA) Healthcare Provider CPR (BLS) certification required.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

• Knowledge of medical terminology.
• Demonstrates good manual dexterity.
• Knowledge of surgical anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, and operative technique.
• Knowledge of current trends and demonstration of standards of care in perioperative nursing.
• Current knowledge of the surgical technologist role and scope of practice as defined by the Liaison council on certification for the surgical technologist.
• Successful completion of mandatory requirements including unit proficiencies/competencies.
• Demonstration of effective problem solving, decision-making, interpersonal, and team work skills.
• Demonstration of effective verbal and written communication.
• Demonstration of positive customer service.
• Must be able to work well under pressure and responds appropriately and quickly to emergency situations and work well with speed, accuracy and concentration.
• Demonstrates time management and organizational skills.

EQUIPMENT/TOOLS/SOFTWARE

• Basic computer literacy (keyboarding; order entry; word processing).
• Knowledge of all instrumentation/equipment in the O.R.
• Capability of operating sterilizers and other equipment used in the reprocessing of surgical instruments and equipment.

PRIMARY JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

• Prepares operating room by ensuring correct supplies, tools and instruments are available.
• Assists other team members in set-up, clean-up, and turn-over of operating rooms.
• Checks out-dates and condition of supplies and equipment.
• Transports patients.
• Assists surgical team to put on sterile gowns and gloves.
• Performs surgical site disinfection.
• Assists with dressing application.
• Collaborates with the R.N circulator in preparing and labeling specimens for laboratory analysis. Verifies specimens are accurately labeled and handled.
• Applies sterile drapes to incision site while maintaining aseptic technique.
• Participates in time out procedure.
• Collaborates with other members of the perioperative team in assembling instruments and equipment for surgical cases.
• Ensures instruments and equipment are working properly.
• Collaborates with team members to create and maintain an aseptic surgical environment.
• Demonstrates proper technique when transporting, moving or positioning the patient on the operating table.
• Collaborates and communicates effectively with other team members in performing a safe operation with optimal outcomes for the patient.
• Anticipates the needs of the surgeon, passes instruments, handles all sharps appropriately and provides sterile items in an efficient manner during all surgical procedures.
• Provides aid in exposure, suctioning the operative site, cutting suture, or other technical functions within the scope of practice.
• Assures that sponge, sharps and instrumentation counts are accurate and reports to the surgeon.
• Assists in the orientation and training of new and tenured personnel; serves as a preceptor when requested.
• Demonstrates knowledge of disaster/ emergency procedures and responds appropriately.
• Assumes responsibility and accountability for individual knowledge, skills, performance and behavior in accordance with hospital, division, and unit standards of care and policies and procedures.
• Assists in the development of policies procedures and protocols.
• Utilizes measures to promote and maintain patient, visitor and personnel safety.
• Maintains patient, employee, physician, and organization confidentiality; respects the rights, privacy, and property of others.
• Demonstrates the appropriate use of infection control principles and personal protection equipment.
• Supports the mission, values, and vision of the organization.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Actively participates in Time Outs.
• Actively participates in Fire Risk Assessments.
• Maintains self-control under stressful situations and workload pressures without exhibiting any negative behaviors.
• Floats to assigned role within the perioperative setting as needed.