First Assist Surg Tech III

Overview This position prepares the surgical suite for the procedure by assisting the surgical technologist along with the registered nurse in gathering equipment, instruments, and supplies to perform the procedure. It ensures all supplies and equipment are available and in working condition, and assists the RN circulator and anesthesia provider in patient preparation including foley catheter placement, tourniquet placement, intravenous catheter insertion, cricoid pressure application, and other procedures as needed. The assistant provides exposure, aids in hemostasis, closure, and other intraoperative technical functions that help the surgeon carry out a safe operation with maximum results for the patient. The assistant is responsible for proper draping, retracting, suctioning, sponging, suturing, tissue handling, and cautery techniques, and for applying appropriate dressing material specific to each procedure. The role supports the surgeon and other team members in the operating room through utilization of the operating room team concept. Responsibilities Demonstrates knowledge of surgical procedures, anatomy and physiology, and operative techniques related to specific procedure – 50% Assures all necessary supplies, equipment, or instruments are opened or available and properly charged – 20% Assists physician as directed with proper positioning, draping, retracting, suctioning, sponging, tissue handling, cautery techniques, stapling devices, and suturing – 20% Assists team members in transportation, positioning and total care of patients – 10% Other duties and responsibilities: Demonstrates a broad range of knowledge with proficiency in the preparation of surgical procedures and versatility in staffing as a surgical technologist if needed. Participates in orientation, ongoing competencies, education, and staff development (including staff meetings). Participates in regulatory surveys. Participates in performance improvement activities. Fulfills on‑call responsibilities and extra shift coverage as needed. Demonstrates a positive, courteous, and helpful attitude toward patients, visitors, physicians, and co‑workers. Remains calm and efficient when working in stressful situations. Shares information and reports significant changes and/or abnormal findings to appropriate team members. Attends and/or participates in professional association activities and programs to stay current on regulations, guidelines, and professional standards of care. Stays current on new developments in healthcare by reading professional journals and attending seminars when applicable. Other duties as assigned. Certifications and Licensures Credential: CSFA – Certified Surgical First Assistant. Equivalent Experience: Certification conferred by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA), National Surgical Assistant Association (NSAA), and American Board of Surgical Assistants (ABSA). Initial certification as a CSFA, CSA, or SA‑C is required within two years of signing this job description if not already obtained. Basic Life Support (BLS) – required within one month of hire or transfer (AHA). Required Education High School Diploma or GED. Education Specialization: General Studies. Experience, Training and Skills Maintain certification CSFA, CSA, or SA‑C. If a career ladder is implemented at the Medical Center, first assistant must complete skills/practice competency as described for the current level. Manual dexterity and mechanical skills needed to properly use and hold surgical instruments. Interpersonal skills needed to communicate successfully with individuals and groups and interact with people at all levels. Preferred 5 years’ experience as a CST. Competency in Microsoft Windows and willingness to participate in further learning opportunities offered by MyMichigan Health. Physical/Mental Requirements and Typical Working Conditions Exposure to stressful situations, including those involving public contact, trauma, grief, and death. Ability to wear personal protective equipment that includes latex materials or appropriate substitutes. Must be able to move freely throughout the facility with or without an assisted device and perform all functions of the job. Vision and hearing necessary with or without assisted devices. Frequently required to sit, stand, and walk for long periods; may require frequent postural changes such as stooping, kneeling, or crouching. Some exposure to blood‑borne pathogens and other potentially infectious material; blood‑borne pathogen and TB testing required as per MyMichigan Health policy. Ability to handle multiple tasks, work independently, and maintain regular attendance. Overall dexterity required, including handling, reaching, grasping, fingering, and feeling; repetitions may occur regularly. Physical Demand Level: Medium. Must occasionally lift or carry 21‑50 lbs., frequently lift 20 lbs., and constantly manage 10 lbs. of arm/leg controls. #J-18808-Ljbffr