The Surgical Technician assists surgeons during procedures, manages surgical specimens, and ensures the operating room is properly set up and sterilized. They are responsible for maintaining a sterile environment and providing direct patient care including vital signs and wound dressing.
Requirements summary
Candidates must have a high school diploma and completion of an approved Surgical Technologist course with current certification or licensure. A minimum of two years of operating room experience is preferred.
Handles surgical specimens according to established policies.
Demonstrates competent technical skills in all surgery specialties and procedures.
Performs assigned duties to ensure efficient functioning of the operating room.
Assists surgeon during surgical procedures. Observes surgery techniques.
Assists surgeon in treating patients. Cleans wounds, applies and changes dressings and bandages.
Takes vital signs. Performs a variety of tests. Performs CPR.
Sets up surgery rooms. Strips and cleans rooms after procedures.
Cleans, decontaminates, wraps, and sterilizes equipment and instruments.
Maintains supplies and restocks departments.
Maintains a neat, orderly environment at all times by cleaning and preparing the operating room suite following each surgical procedure, and at the end of the day, i.e. operating room cupboard stock and updates.
Prepares and organizes case carts when necessary.
Reviews and adheres to established fire, safety disaster plans, and infection control policies.
Utilizes protective devices, i.e. safety straps, restraints, according to the IASA’s policies.
Inspects environment to identify safety hazards and reports to appropriate personnel immediately.
Responsible for maintaining knowledge about equipment, supplies and instruments and alerting management to any changes or problems that may affect operating room functions.
Communicates effectively with patients, peers and all members of the health care team, utilizing positive guest relation principles.
Willingly communicates and accepts direction from the circulating registered nurse in all aspects of patient care.
Maintains confidentiality of patient information at all times.
Maintains optimal technical and practical skills through planned continuous growth.
Actively collaborates with supervisor to update knowledge and identify his/her educational and experimental needs.
Recognizes need for instruction or assistance during surgical procedures and request help from appropriate resources.
Attends designated mandatory in-services and meetings, regardless of employees scheduled time.
Attends laser in-service annually to remain knowledgeable concerning concepts and safety procedures.
Participates with management in the formation of goals related to the improvement of performance.
Utilizes available resources to obtain additional information and/or seeks clarification to implement patient care or special assignments.
Maintains and adheres to UNIVERSAL PRECAUTIONS for the protection of self and others.
Wears appropriate PPE for every surgical procedure scrubbed on.
Properly disposes of contaminated/soiled waste, i.e. sponges, prep pads, etc., in appropriate containers.
Carefully and completely seals suction canisters, sharps and needle boxes prior to transporting to decontamination area.
Follows use and proper passing/disposal of all sharp objects.
Assists other members of the operating room staff when requested.
Assist with safe transport of patients to and from the operating room to post anesthesia recovery.
Assists in the orientation of new staff members.
Knowledge and Ability - This position requires a thorough knowledge of aseptic technique and surgical instrumentation. A stable temperament and ability to work under pressure, as well as a keen sense of responsibility and concern for accuracy in performing all duties in a manner consistent with good patient care and operative technique.
Experience and Education - Graduation from an accredited high school and completion of an approved course for Surgical Technologists.
Current certification/licensure is required.
Minimum of two (2) years surgical/operating room experience preferred.
Good interpersonal skills and problem solving skills.
Broad knowledge of operating room instrumentation and equipment.
