Description
Essential Functions The Surgical First Assistant should not simultaneously function in the scrub role when serving as a First Assistant. Aseptic technique · Follows the appropriate technique as defined by AORN guidelines for the hand scrub · Initiates corrective action when a break in technique occurs · Inspects/maintains sterility of supplies/trays · Protects integrity of the sterile field Maintenance of surgical site · Provides correct sponging, direct pressure and clamping · Operates suction equipment · Provides cautery as directed, demonstrating correct use to avoid destruction of tissue · Responds to the needs and anticipates the needs of the surgeon · Adheres to the standards of care as outlined by the American Operation Nurses Association Preparation of surgical field · Assists in gathering all supplies needed for the procedure · Assists in transferring the patient to the OR table and verifies identity of the patient · Positions patient safely on the table · Performs the proper surgical scrub on the correct operative site · Drapes for maximum exposure to the operative site Retracting · Retracts as directed by the physician · Consistently retracts the tissues to maintain adequate exposure while maintaining the safety of the patient Closure of incision · Identifies the correct suturing method for the area involved · Demonstrates competency in the correct method of suturing/knot tying for the various types of tissue · Coordinates suturing move with the surgeon and cuts sutures appropriately · Utilizes stapling devices appropriately Secures drainage devices
Other surgical duties may include:
· assist with intraoperative positions · injection of local anesthesia · insertion of trocars · preparation of grafts · securing drains · application of casts · facilitating patient rounds · changing of dressings · and other duties as assigned by the supervising physician
Medical Office Duties:
· Summons and prepares patient for office visit. · Assists the physician with medical office procedure. · Administers medication, including injections; documents medication given or prescribed by ordering physicians as required by specialty. · Adheres to nursing policy and procedure when documenting information in patient’s medical record. · Maintains the integrity of the office · Performs additional duties specific to the specialty, and/or acquires additional license or credentials. · Accepts responsibility for reading and referencing new policies and procedures and Nursing Update newsletters and assumes responsibility for maintaining current certification in CPR. Supervisory Responsibility None Work Environment & Physical Demands Ability to walk or stand for up to 80% of work time, and to push /pull equipment weighing up to approximately 40 pounds for up to 20% of work tune. Exposures to blood and body fluids, and all areas of patient care. Also exposed to cool temperatures, hazardous equipment, fumes /odors and noise. Physical/Mental – Standing in one place for prolonged periods of time. Manual Dexterity – Handling of surgical instruments
Travel No travel is expected for this position except to satellite offices.