Surgical Tech II

POSITION SUMMARY / RESPONSIBILITIES

Performs a variety of duties in the Operating Room to assist the surgical team. Assists in caring for the safety and welfare of the patient in the operating room and for the efficient and prompt performance of assignments. Assist in the preparation and care of surgical patients ranging from infancy to geriatrics under the general direction of a professional nurse. The Surgical Technician possesses expertise in the theory and application of sterile aseptic technique and combines the knowledge of human anatomy, surgical procedures, and implementation tools and technologies to facilitate surgeon’s performance of invasive therapeutic and diagnostic procedures. Expected to perform to the job functions and meet criteria of Surgical Technician I.

FUNCTIONS / BEHAVIORS

Receives assignment for the day and checks rooms for case cart and equipment as necessary. Checks surgical posting card and surgeon preference card for any additional or missing supplies needed and works together with circulating nurse to open instrumentation / packs for the case in a timely manner. (E 15%)

Independently scrubs basic to intermediate surgical procedures while maintaining and monitoring aseptic technique. Demonstrates increasing ability to problem solve in relation to the procedures performed. Selects a service line specialty to focus growth. (E 10%)

Teaches staff and students select procedures based on level of expertise with procedure and service line.   (E 10%)

Applies intermediate knowledge of anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, microbiology and pharmacology. Shows autonomy in practice and demonstrates the ability to be assigned to increasingly complex surgical procedures with one or more service lines.   (E 10%)

Applies the principles of asepsis during surgical procedures and increases the awareness of those in assist and observer roles. (E 15%)

Provides updates and assists Service Line Leaders with suggestions and changes to preference cards. (E 10%)

Promotes a healthy work place through proactive assessment of environment and relay of information to next level leadership. Places work orders as needed. (E 10%)

Participates in the growth of the unit through upholding the standards of behavior. (E 10%)

• Addresses interpersonal conflicts directly with individuals involved, in a positive manner, utilizing supportive resources as necessary
• Functions as a team member by assisting colleagues
• Provides feedback to colleagues directly in a non-threatening relationship-preserving fashion.
• Treats mistakes by self and others as opportunities for growth, thereby creating a culture in which feedback is not only safe, but expected.
• Sets a positive tone, even in challenging situations, by treating others with caring and respect.

Assists in moving patient at the completion of the operation. Returns all equipment to proper place, gathers instruments, assists with clean-up of operating room. (E 5%)

Performs other duties as assigned.   (M 5%)

Demonstrates competence to perform assigned patient care responsibilities in a manner that meets the age-specific and developmental needs of patients served by the department. (E)

Appropriately adapts assigned patient assessment, treatment and / or care methods to accommodate the unique physical, psychosocial, cultural, age-specific and other developmental needs of each patient served. (E) Supports University Health System mission, vision, and values. Demonstrates established customer service behaviors and standards. Treats all customers with courtesy, dignity, respect and professionalism. (E)

SUPERVISION

Direct supervisor is Patient Care Coordinator; indirect supervision from circulating nurse of assigned operating room. Department Supervision from Director of Operating Room Services.

EDUCATION / EXPERIENCE

High school diploma or equivalent experience required. Completion of an accredited Surgical Technologist Program and a certification as a surgical technologist; OR employed as a surgical technologist for one (1) year in a health care facility before September 1, 2009; OR, completion of an appropriate training program for surgical technology in the Armed Services of the United States or in the United States Public Health Service.   Two years experience as a Surgical Technician is required. Must complete Surgical Technician Clinical Ladder packet for consideration for promotion.

ACCURACY

Skill in caring for and dealing with patients. Skill in handling equipment pertaining to the operating room and proficiency in performing all phases of duties. Thoroughness in reporting information to supervisor.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Subject to radiation exposure; will come into contact with infectious agents; may occasionally have to work irregular hours. Job requires lifting, walking, bending, carrying moderately heavy objects (up to 50 lbs), standing up to 80% of the day with the usual hazards of handling and moving equipment and supplies. Involves stress situations due to working with patients. May be subject to frequent pressure of deadlines and interruptions.

OTHER

Must be able to hear and understand verbal instructions, have near-visual acuity and good eye to hand coordination to fulfill quickly and accurately surgeon's and nurse's instructions. Must be available for call and weekends as prescribed by the scheduling requirements. Must abide by hospital policies related to time and attendance and attire. Must also successfully complete the pre-employment / post job offer health screening examination and the annual screening, each year thereafter, as an employee.