Surgical Tech Extern - Operating Room

Job summary

The Extern - Surgical Technician performs a variety of preparatory, scrubbing and related services necessary to provide patient care in the operating room. Assists with surgical cases in all specialty areas. The intent of the externship is to prepare the student to transition into a Surgical Tech role upon completion of the Surgical Tech Program at MVCC.

• Core job responsibilities
• Assists in providing a clean, safe and efficient area conducive to optimal patient care. Utilizes aseptic surgical techniques in the preparation of materials, supplies and equipment for surgical procedures (e.g., assistance with gowning and gloving; preparation and draping of the surgical area; provision of a sterile field, instruments, suture and related materials; anticipation of the Surgeons' needs; passing of instruments and/or supplies; holding of retractors, observing and reporting possible breaks in aseptic technique; and assisting in maintaining a sterile, dry, and unobstructed field).
• Acts as a scrub assistant for surgical procedures and obtains/maintains basic knowledge of a variety of procedures.
• Assists with the disinfection, safety and efficiency of the operating room and the unit.
• Assists in setting up the operating room for each case including moving equipment (i.e., tables, cameras, microscopes, fracture table, and instrument pans), operating the various types of equipment used during operating room procedures, and returning equipment post procedure.
• Assists in maintaining accurate instrument/sponge counts.
• Transports patients, equipment and supplies. Immediately notifies appropriate staff member of emergent patient care situations or equipment supply issues.
• Maintains specialty cart or items, ensuring completeness and availability. This includes checking the working condition of equipment, sterility, and sending damaged items out for repair.
• Assists with various patient positioning and transporting duties, which require lifting and pushing/pulling while utilizing proper technique.
• Adheres to Infection Control program to prevent spread of infections, practice of standard precautions, protects self, peers, patients, and visitors from infection and uses appropriate personal protective equipment.
• Flexible to work variable shifts, including weekends and/or holidays.
• Performs related duties as assigned.