Surgical Technologist (Indiana Ambulatory Surgical Association) - Casual

Duties and Functions

• Handles surgical specimens according to established policies.
• Demonstrates competent technical skills in all surgery specialties and procedures.
• Assists surgeon during surgical procedures and observes surgery techniques.
• Assists surgeon in treating patients; cleans wounds, applies and changes dressings and bandages.
• Takes vital signs, performs a variety of tests, and performs CPR.
• Sets up surgery rooms and strips and cleans rooms after procedures.
• Cleans, decontaminates, wraps, and sterilizes equipment and instruments.
• Maintains supplies and restocks departments.
• Maintains a neat, orderly environment by cleaning and preparing the operating room suite after each procedure and at end of day.
• Prepares and organizes case carts when necessary.
• Reviews and adheres to fire, safety disaster plans, and infection control policies.
• Utilizes protective devices such as safety straps and restraints per IASA policies.
• Inspects environment to identify safety hazards and reports to appropriate personnel immediately.
• Maintains knowledge about equipment, supplies and instruments and alerts management to changes or problems affecting operating room functions.
• Communicates effectively with patients, peers and all members of the health care team.
• Accepts direction from the circulating registered nurse in all aspects of patient care.
• Maintains confidentiality of patient information at all times.
• Maintains optimal technical and practical skills through planned continuous growth.
• Collaborates with supervisor to update knowledge and identify educational needs.
• Recognizes need for instruction or assistance during surgical procedures and requests help from appropriate resources.
• Attends designated mandatory in-services and meetings.
• Attends laser in-service annually.
• Participates with management in formation of performance improvement goals.
• Utilizes available resources to obtain additional information or seek clarification.
• Maintains and adheres to universal precautions for protection of self and others.
• Wears appropriate PPE for every surgical procedure scrubbed on.
• Properly disposes of contaminated or soiled waste in appropriate containers.
• Seals suction canisters, sharps and needle boxes prior to transporting to decontamination area.
• Follows use and proper passing/disposal of all sharp objects.
• Assists other members of the operating room staff when requested.
• Assists with safe transport of patients to and from the operating room to post anesthesia recovery.
• Assists in orientation of new staff members.

Knowledge and Ability

This position requires a thorough knowledge of aseptic technique and surgical instrumentation. A stable temperament and ability to work under pressure, as well as a keen sense of responsibility and concern for accuracy in performing all duties in a manner consistent with good patient care and operative technique.

Experience and Education

Graduation from an accredited high school and completion of an approved course for Surgical Technologists. Current certification/licensure is required. Minimum of two (2) years surgical/operating room experience preferred. Good interpersonal skills and problem solving skills. Broad knowledge of operating room instrumentation and equipment.