Functions as a team member under the supervision of an Registered Nurse. Utilizes Association of Perioperative
Registered Nurses (AORN) Perioperative Standards, Association of Surgical Technologist Recommended Standards of
Practice; Perioperative policies and procedures in performing duties related to care of the patient during surgical
intervention. Scrubs consistently in complex cases independently. Support the SJMO Core Values and division
beliefs during interactions with patients, visitors and colleagues.
Position Qualifications:
A. Education
Associates hired prior to 9/1/13: Graduate of an approved Surgical Technologist program or equivalent work
experience. Associates Degree in Surgical Technology preferred.
Associates hired after 9/1/13: Minimum of Associates Degree in Surgical Technology or current Certified
Association of Surgical Technologist.
B. Licensure / Certification
Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
Associates hired prior to 9/1/13: Association of Surgical Technologist Certification, preferred. Associates
hired/transferred after 9/1/13: Association of Surgical Technologist Certification preferred (refer to Education
section above).
C Special Skill / Aptitudes
Must successfully complete department orientation/competency review for complex cases which may include
Interpersonal skills necessary in order to interact in an effective manner with patients, families, physicians and
to collaborate within a team, with other unit teams and various levels of Hospital personnel.
Successful completion of orientation to complex cases, demonstrating the ability to work independently.
Excellent customer service orientation skills necessary in order to deal effectively with various levels of
hospital personnel, outside customers and community groups.
D. Experience
Minimum of 2 years working experience as a Surgical Technologist demonstrating the ability to develop and
improve skills in assisting surgeon and in the organization of work by using economy of time, motion and
materials.
Duties / Responsibilities:
1 Applies the principles of asepsis in a knowledgeable manner to provide optimum patient care. Maintains
highest standard of sterile technique and corrects any breaks in technique.
2 Participates in general cleaning, stocking and sterilization of instruments and supplies in the OR. According
to policy and procedure, maintains a clean and safe OR environment.
3 Assists in setting up the OR with supplies, instruments and other equipment. Arranges supplies and
instruments for efficient use during the surgical procedures. Differentiates sterilization methods for special
equipment and instruments necessary for specific surgical procedures as required. Anticipates future supply
and instrument needs of following room procedures to reduce room turnover between cases.
4 Assists with moving and positioning of patients pre-op, intra-op and post-operatively.
5 Scrubs on a variety of procedures, and at least 50% of work time is assigned to at least two of the following:
a) Abdominal aortic Aneurysm and/or Aortic Bi-femoral Bypass Grafts
b) Total Joint Replacement and repair
c) Craniotomy / fusions
d) Open-Heart Surgery including CABG and Valve Replacement
6 Anticipates the needs of the surgeon when passing instruments, sponges, sutures, etc., during the surgical
procedure. Also, anticipates the needs of the surgical team and assists efficiently within the sterile field as
directed by the surgeon.
7 Maintains an accurate count of sponges, needles and instruments and is jointly responsible with the RN
circulator for ensuring counts are complete prior to the procedure and before the incision is closed.
8 Identifies and gives the specimen to the circulating RN as directed by the surgeon.
9 Participates on a consistent basis in the orientation and education of all operating room staff including
Technologists and Surgical Technologist Students.
10 Performs all duties in a manner consistent with safe patient care and according to specified policy and
procedure. Respects confidentiality of patient records and information, patient's right to privacy, dignity and
safety.
11 Contributes to unit projects and assists in trial and evaluation of new surgical products and procedures.
12 Participates in continuing education/in-service meetings, seeking opportunity for professional growth and
development, maintaining a current continuing education record.
Demonstrates and actively promotes an understanding and commitment to the mission of St. Joseph Mercy
Oakland through performing behaviors consistent with the Trinity Health Values.
Maintains a working knowledge of applicable Federal, State, and Local laws and regulations, the Trinity
Health Organizational Integrity Program, including the Standards of Conduct, Code of Ethics, as well as
other policies and procedures in order to ensure adherence in a manner that reflects honest, ethical and
professional behaviors.
Supports and conducts one's self in a manner consistent with customer service expectations
In accordance with unit or departmental practice, determines that appropriate charges have been entered for the
correct patient, encounter, date/time of service, with any required modifiers. Make corrections as needed per
charge capture policy/practice.
In accordance with unit or departmental practice, actively participates in on-going education and
communication regarding revenue management.
In accordance with unit or departmental practice, assists with tracking and monitoring of equipment assigned
to the unit. Requests services for maintaining equipment as needed.
In accordance with unit or departmental practice, proficient with the electronic health records for
documentation, assessment, and care management, performing these activities concurrently with provision of
care throughout the shift.
Working Conditions:
• Position may require frequent lifting and carrying of patients/equipment/other not to exceed 51 pounds.
Associates will not lift items/patients exceeding 35 pounds from the floor.
• The job is performed in the surgical suite and related areas. Working in the patient care environment may
result in exposure to communicable diseases and hazardous substances.
• Working weekends, holidays and rotating shifts may be necessary in order to meet staffing needs.
Our Commitment
Rooted in our Mission and Core Values, we honor the dignity of every person and recognize the unique perspectives, experiences, and talents each colleague brings. By finding common ground and embracing our differences, we grow stronger together and deliver more compassionate, person-centered care. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law.