Surgical Technician functions as primary scrub person responsible for handling instruments, supplies and equipment during all surgical procedures such as thoracic, major vascular, neurosurgery, microsurgery and total joint replacement surgery. He/she set up sterile field with all required items for each procedure such as air-powered equipment, fiber optic equipment, laparoscopic equipment, microscopic, lasers. arthroscopy equipment, urologic equipment, recording device, and other operating room supplies and equipment. Plans and anticipates need for unique specialty equipment and instrumentation, hyperthermia equipment, fracture tables; assures the surgical team of functioning equipment and assures proper lighting.
Plans and discusses each procedure with surgical professionals and assures that all supplies and equipment are available prior to the surgical procedure. Prepares, organizes and maintains highly complex sterile surgical set-ups to facilitate type of surgical procedure. Maintains the sterility of the environment and independently plans for easy access to emergency instruments and equipment.
Scrubs on complex surgical procedures utilizing strict aseptic techniques. Assists in preparation, positioning, and draping of patients to facilitate safe surgical intervention. Observe and responds promptly to each stage of the surgical procedures and anticipates the needs of the surgeon by maintaining a high level of concentration for extended period- of time. ls proficient in handing instruments/equipment to the surgeon and anticipates the surgeon's needs during the procedure. Recognizes non-verbal signals by the surgeon md responds quickly and appropriately.
Utilizes universal precautions and follows all infection control policies and procedures when handling specimens, supplies, and equipment. Handles all specimens appropriately. Observes the surgical site continuously, remaining attentive for potential adverse situations/emergencies and breaks in sterile techniques/fields.
In conjunction with the circulating Registered Nurse (RN), performs sponge and instrument counts to verify accuracy. Responsible for the accountability of all surgical instruments and equipment during the surgical procedure. Reports correct/incorrect counts to the surgeon. Assumes joint responsibility with the surgeon for tissue specimens, culture and hardware, assuring that critical specimen information is transmitted to the circulating nurse.
Assists in training residents, medical student, nursing students, operating room technology students and new Operating Room (OR) staff in the operation of equipment, sterile technique, handling of instruments and OR procedure to include the scrub role in surgical procedures. Independently recognizes and remedies errors in sterile technique. Provides guidance and support to other Surgical Technicians, professional and technical students of an approved surgical technology program.
Lifts, moves and transport patients from surgical wards within the OR suite, recovery room and holding areas, assuring sate transport of the anxious, sedated/anesthetized patients. Safe transport includes being aware of drains. hemodynamic lines, IV's, pumps, catheters, and proper positioning and protection of the surgical wound and maintenance of O2 to support airway when indicated.
Performs non-technical maintenance of equipment to prevent malfunctions. Maintains complicated surgical equipment and instrumentation for assigned specialty areas, including inventory and establishment of levels for specialty supplies. Reviews and revises instrument sets to provide adequate instrumentation, deleting unnecessary items to avoid duplication. Assures that instruments are in good working order. Continually assesses equipment needs and maintains adequate stock of supplies and materials. constantly updates knowledge of new surgical procedures and equipment. Recognizes potentially hazardous equipment situations, (i.e., frayed cords, water on floor) and takes corrective action.
Assists surgical team members in quality improvement activities. As time permits, works closely with OR RN staff to develop educational programs for presentation to peers. Updates personal knowledge regarding current trends.
Other duties as assigned in addition to the above
Work Schedule: Day tour of duty with on call and weekend requirements
Position Description Title/PD#:Surgical Technician /30189A
Physical Requirements: There are extensive periods of regular and recurring standing, walking, bending. lifting, pushing, reaching, and prolonged stretching to provide easy accessibility of instruments and supplies for the surgeons. Must be able to stand for prolonged periods of time without relief. Must have good hearing, eyesight, and physical dexterity (especially with hands and fingers). Must know and practice good body mechanic in movement and lifting, e.g., heavy equipment, instrument trays, surgical packs, case carts, and patients during unconsciousness, etc.
Starting at $53,456 Per Year (GS 7)
