Overview
Under the delegate authority of the surgeon, carries out all functions that will assist the surgeon in performing a safe operation with optimal results for the patient. Providing aid in exposure, homeostasis, closure of body planes, securing drainage systems to tissues, selecting and applying appropriate wound dressings.
Responsibilities
Moving and positioning the patient for surgery.
Positioning: the surgeon shall convey the exact position that will give the
best exposure for the surgical procedure.
The surgical assistant will carry out this order. Consideration will be given for the patient’s comfort and safety.
Points of pressure shall be padded.
Circulation shall not be impaired, and nerve damage shall be guarded against.
The surgical assistant shall be familiar with common positions as they relate to the surgical procedure and will be able to use the equipment necessary to provide the position.
Prepping and draping the patient.
Retraction of tissue and exposure of operative field during procedure.
Appropriate placement and securing of retractors with and without padding.
Packing and sponges.
Digital manipulation of tissue.
Clamps and ties blood vessels to control bleeding during operative procedure.
Keeps operative area dry.
Suctioning, irrigating, or sponging.
Manipulation of suture materials (e.g.,loops, tags, running sutures).
Proper body mechanics to prevent obstruction of surgeon’s view.
Utilizing appropriate techniques to assist with hemostasis.
Permanent:
1. Clamping and/or cauterizing vessels or tissues.
Typing and/or ligating clamped vessels or tissues.
Applying hemostatic clips.
4. Placing local hemostatic agents.
Temporary:
1. Applying tourniquets.
Applying vessel loops.
Applying noncrushing clamps.
4. Applying direct digital pressure.
Affords surgeon the best possible exposure of the anatomy incident to the operation.
Assists in identifying anatomy.
Has knowledge of procedure and instruments needed for assigned procedures.
Assists in closure of the incision including typing of blood vessels
Utilizing running or interrupted subcutaneous suture with absorbable or nonabsorbable material.
Utilizing subcuticular closure technique with or without adhesive skin closure strips
Closing skin with method indicated by surgeon (suture, staples, ect.)
Certified OR Surgical Technologist First Assistant
Position Description
August 31, 2005
Page Three
4. Other.
Selecting and applies appropriate wound dressing.
Liquid or spray occlusive materials.
Absorbent material affixed with tape or circumferential wrapping.
Immobilizing dressing (soft or rigid).
Qualifications
Credentialed as a certified surgical assistant.
Certification of a first assistant program.
Current certification as a surgical technologist.
2 full years of first assistant experience.
Current Kentucky Medical License. (May have 6 months to apply)
Competencies include:
1. Fracture tables
2.Head stabilizers
3. Body stabilizers
4. C-arm positions
5. Any other equipment needed
CST/SA-C/LPN
First Assistants who are also an LPN may also perform the duties as described in the job description of an LPN.
