Surgical First Assistant

Overview The Surgical First Assistant serves as first or second assistant on all surgical cases, under the direction of the surgeon to provide technical assistance as required by the type of procedure being performed.

Takes an active role in patient preparation and readiness, assists with the surgical suite room turnaround, equipment management, and has knowledge of special soft equipment specific to each surgical specialty.

Stays current on service nuances, attends surgical updates and is vigilant in all efforts towards sound infection control practices.

Must be able to demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to age of the patient served.

Assists the surgical team in room preparation, sterilization of equipment, gathering supplies and room turnaround.

Expected to float among other RHS facilities.

Surgical privileges are established by the surgery department and medical staff and approved by the governing body.

What you will do

Assists the physician with all aspects of care during the operative procedure.

Collaborates with physicians to provide for the specialized needs of patients.

Monitor/supports personal departmental productivity through volunteering for and recommending creative changes to include flexing and shift changes to meet the needs of the department.

Demonstrates advanced proficiency and good problem solving skills and serves as a clinical resource to support and develop peers and assist the surgeon technically.

Recommends and participates in supply utilization changes that support cost containment. Participates and provides feedback in new equipment/product evaluations; identifies and recommends solutions for cost savings and waste reduction.

Demonstrates and maintains profession relationship with medical staff.

Demonstrates an understanding of how to identify and report suspected noncompliance or violations to the Quality Management System.

Builds trusting collaborative relationships through timely follow-up regarding requests and concerns.

Responsible for following safe practices as referenced in the National Patient Safety Goals, and following policy & procedures, as well as guidelines outlined in AORN, CMS, and DNV. Identifies opportunities and follows through to continuously improve service and patient care outcomes in accordance with patient safety standards, standards of excellence and RHS Code of Ethics. Capable of recognizing emergency situations and responds competently.