Surgical Technologist

Must be courteous to patients, visitors, physicians, volunteers, and other employees of the organization.

Role Responsibilities:

• Demonstrates a good technical knowledge of the surgical environment, principles of infection control and sterility and uses this knowledge in assisting the Registered Nurse and Surgeon to provide a safe surgical environment which supports quality patient care.
• Prepares the operating room by setting up surgical instruments and equipment, sterile drapes and sterile solutions.
• Maintains a sterile environment according to hospital policy and AORN Standards of Care.
• Able to perform the scrub technician functions for all services and specialties.
• Assembles sterile and non-sterile equipment and adjusts as necessary to ensure proper working condition.
• During surgery passes instruments, and other sterile supplies to surgeon and surgeon’s assistants.
• Holds retractors, cuts sutures, helps count sponges, needles, supplies and instruments.
• Prepares, cares for, and disposes of specimens taken for laboratory analysis.
• Assists in applying surgical dressings.
• Ensures availability of surgeon and case specific instrumentation and equipment following department protocol and surgeon’s preference cards.
• Assists in transporting patients to the Operating Room and helps position patients on the Operating Room table.
• Understands and uses the appropriate sterilization methods for special equipment and instruments.
• Understands the specific use and functioning of all supplies and equipment used in surgical procedures.
• May operate sterilizers. Lights, suction, and help with diagnostic equipment.
• Under the direction of the surgeon and Registered Nurse, accurately and safely prepares and labels medications during the “surgical procedure.”
• Assists in transferring patients to the recovery area.
• May assist in turnover and restocking the operating room for the next surgical procedure.
• Respects patients’ inherent right to privacy, dignity and safety.
• Provides a safe environment for the surgical patient.
• Assumes responsibility for orientation of new Operating Room employees, as required.
• Understands the importance of teamwork, consideration and cooperation.
• Works in conjunction with Registered Nurse to update and maintain equipment and instrumentation of specialty services.
• Participates in unit staff meetings, in-service programs and educational programs relative to career development.
• Performs other work-related duties and activities as assigned or requested by his/her immediate supervisor.
• Consistently provides service excellence to all patients, family members, visitors, volunteers and co-workers.