CERTIFIED SURGICAL TECH

Job Description:

Has principal responsibility for preparing the operating room and assisting the physician during surgical procedures under the supervision of the RN Circulator. Responsible for performing the sterilization of instruments and assisting with cleaning operating rooms. Works cooperatively with ancillary, nursing, and other patient team personnel in maintaining standards for professional nursing practice in the surgical setting; Participates in performance improvement (PI) initiatives. 

Job Qualifications:                    

1. Education: Graduate of an accredited Certified Surgical Tech School or has proof of training and employment as scrub technician prior to September 1, 2009.
2. Personal Job-Related Skills: Effective oral and written communication skills.
3. Licensure, Registry or Certification: Certified Surgical Technician (CST).   
4. Experience:
   1. Prior Work Experience: One year’s experience in surgical services preferred.
   2. Technical Training: Current CPR certification; ACLS, PALS, NRP preferred.
5. Physical and Mental Requirements: Duties of the position require extended periods of standing, walking, bending, stooping, twisting, reaching, and lifting up to 50 pounds. Occasional heavy lifting is required when moving or supporting patients who may suddenly become weak or helpless.
6. Supervisory Skills: Must demonstrate the ability to coordinate care of patients with other members of the healthcare team. Mentors new staff members to develop their full potential to enhance staff development and patient care outcomes.

Job Duties:

1. Prepare the operation room for surgery by ensuring its cleanliness.
2. Make sure that surgical equipment and tools are sterilized and made available prior to a scheduled surgery.
3. Ensure constant supply of surgical materials such as gauze and cotton.
4. Engage patients in dialogue with a view to put their fears at ease and educate them about pre and post-surgical expectations
5. Clean, shave and disinfect body areas on which surgery needs to be performed.
6. Shift patients from stretchers onto operation tables and cover them with sterile cloth.
7. Observe patients during anesthesia administration and voice any concerns.
8. Pass various tools to surgeons during the surgery procedure.
9. Hold body organs in place as per surgeon’s instructions during surgical procedures.
10. Apply bandages and dressings to incision areas.
11. Count the number of tools used during a surgical procedure and ensure that all are in order.
12. Make sure that all instruments and equipment are sterilized and placed in their specific containers and storage areas.
13. Prepare patients so that they can be shifted to a post-op area.
14. Physically place patients on movable beds and transport them to their rooms or designated post-operative rooms.