Certified Surgical First Assist

Summary

Assists operating surgeons in carrying out technical surgical procedures in accordance with applicable safety laws and regulations. Positioning the patient, providing visualization of the operative site by approved methods.

Job Description

Assists operating surgeons with intra-operative procedures like homeostasis, exposure, closure, and other intraoperative technical functions that assist the surgeon in carrying out a safe procedure with optimal results for the patient. In addition to intraoperative duties, the surgical assistant also performs preoperative and postoperative duties to better facilitate proper patient care. The surgical assistant performs these functions during the procedure under the direction and supervision of the surgeon and in accordance with hospital policy and appropriate laws and regulations.

Participating in volume replacement or autotransfusion techniques as appropriate. Utilizing appropriate techniques to assist with closure of body planes. Selecting and applying wound dressings including but not limited to liquid or spray occlusive materials, absorbent material affixed with tape or circumferential wrapping, immobilizing dressing (soft or rigid), and providing assistance in securing drainage systems to tissue.

Develops specialized preoperative plans in coordination with appropriate surgeons and health team members. Prepares surgical tools and equipment, takes preventative measures to ensure applicable health and safety regulations are satisfied. Administers preoperative medications and reports the responses of patients to assigned surgeons and anesthesiologists.

Credentialing through the Allied Health Staff of the organization where you will be working will be required.

Qualifications

Graduate from surgical assisting programs accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) through the accreditation review committee on education in surgical technology (ARC/STSA), which is a collaborative effort of Association of Surgical Technologists (AST) and America College of Surgeons (ACS).

CAAHEP is a recognized accreditation agency of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).

In addition, surgical assisting programs may be offered through independently operated facilities or educational institutions and are accredited by agencies recognized by the United States Department of Education (USDE), The Joint Commission, or a state agency acceptable to CAAHEP and the ARC/STSA. The ARC/STSA is also a member of the Association of Specialized and Professional Accreditors (ASPA).

National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assistant certifications is the accepted CSFA certification. Employees must be a Certified Surgical Assistant or eligible to sit for the certification, or Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) must be obtained within six months hired into position. Certifications must be maintained during employment. Dependent on surgery unit, may accept successful completion of exam through the National Board for the Certification of Orthopedic Technologists.