Overview

Under direct supervision performs delegated patient care functions assisting in surgical procedures and in the preparation of supplies and equipment in an operating room.

Key Responsibilities

The following statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by personnel so classified.

1. Assists in the preparation of the operating room and in the selection of surgical instruments and equipment by reviewing the surgeon preference list and conferring with the circulating nurse to gather appropriate equipment.

A. Counts needles, sponges and instruments.

B. Ensures medications on the sterile field are properly labeled.

C. Ensures fluids are maintained at a safe temperature.

D. Ensures instrumentation is cleaned at point of use, restrung, and sprayed with enzymatic cleaner.

2. Performs preoperative preparation of patients, including skin preparation, draping and positioning patients for procedures in accordance with department procedures and protocols, as needed.

3. Hands instruments to the surgeon as requested and/or required, preparing suture material for use, and assisting with gowning and gloving of surgical team in accordance with departmental protocols.

4. Performs related duties associated with basic patient care, including picking-up blood, delivering specimens to clinical laboratories, performing room turnover between cases, escorting patients when assigned and checking emergency carts for needed supplies. Transports patients and runs errands as directed by RN.

5. Prepares supplies for sterilization including washing and wrapping instruments.

6. Assesses the environmental needs of the area and recommends and/or initiates appropriate action.

7. Orientates new Surgical Technologists by explaining department policies and procedures.

8. Performs other duties as assigned.